Pros and Cons of Playing Pickleball With a Player Less Skilled Than You
Why Playing Down Can Still Push You Forward
We’ve all been there, open play is packed, your paddle is in the rack, and you’re next…playing with Walter. Now Walter is perfectly nice, it’s just that his skill level is just not there yet. Do you feign a bathroom run? Scowl and bear it? Or look at it as an opportunity? Hopefully the latter.
Playing with or against someone who isn’t as skilled as you can feel like a step down in the intensity of the game, but there are plenty of benefits to be had if you’re willing to embrace the situation. Let’s explore why it can actually be a great experience.
First, there’s the opportunity to sharpen your fundamentals. When you play with someone who’s not at your level, you have to focus on control and consistency. You’re less likely to rely on flashy shots or risky tactics and more inclined to play a steadier, more thoughtful game. This can reinforce good habits that carry over to your matches with more challenging opponents.
Another upside is the chance to practice adaptability. Playing with or against someone who’s less skilled forces you to readjust your game plan and find different ways to create rallies. You’re not just focusing on overpowering an opponent; you’re working on shot placement, ball control, and even tempo changes to keep the game fun and engaging. This ability to adapt is a key skill in any sport, and it sharpens your strategic thinking.
There’s also a valuable teaching element. If you’re playing with someone who’s newer or less confident, you can take on a mentoring role. Explaining the basics or offering small tips not only helps them, but it also helps you understand the game more deeply. Teaching reinforces your own knowledge and forces you to break down concepts you might normally take for granted. A big caveat here, only offer advice if they are open to it.
Beyond skill-building, there’s the social component. Playing with someone less skilled is often a relaxed environment that encourages conversation and camaraderie. You’re both there to have fun, and there’s less pressure to win at all costs. You can focus more on enjoying the game for what it is, which can be a welcome change of pace if you’re used to competitive matches.
Of course, there can be downsides — the slower pace might leave you wanting more of a workout, or you might feel like you’re not being pushed. But those potential frustrations can be balanced out by the chance to play a supportive, confidence-boosting role. You’re not just there to win; you’re there to help someone else learn and grow.
In the end, playing with or against someone who’s not as skilled can be surprisingly rewarding. It offers a chance to solidify your basics, hone your adaptability, and share the joy of the game, with Walter and everyone else.
