Winning our First Pickleball Tournament - Tips

I entered my second pickleball Tournament in Richmond BC, Canada on June 22nd at Pacific Pickleball club for mixed doubles DUPR. I'm happy to share I won my first mixed doubles tournament with some fuggles beer to enjoy as well with my mixed doubles partner Christine. Here are some insider tips I'll share from the tournament win.

1. Warmups Make a difference - We met an hour earlier at a nearby court to get some practice time in as we didn't want to pay the premium for the indoor court. Warming up allowed us to break a sweat and get our timing. It also helps leading up to the day that you've been playing consistently to remain sharp.

2. Nutrition - I had a good healthy breakfast like a banana, blueberry, and rasberry yogurt granola bowl to power up for the day ahead. I also packed coconut water, had plenty of water, and gatorade. This helped me stay energized and avoid cramping as the rounds wore on.

3. Scout/Study Opponents - We knew some of the opponents so we had some existing video footage to study, but even if you don't have footage you may have the opportunity to watch them play live. If you notice them hiding their backhand or have a lack of mobility then it can help you form an initial game plan.

4. Adapt your game plan depending on how your opponents are reacting. It's a common strategy to target the female parter, but guy may starting cheating and poaching if you don't adjust your strategy. Be willing to change your game plan depending on how the game goes.

5. Have Fun - You want to do well, but in the end this is not Wimbledon. It's more valuable to have some good pickleball friends in the future rather than a .001 increase in your DUPR rating. If you're too attached and serious then you may not play loose and relaxed

6. Play more Tournaments - It definately helps to have played a tournament before to experience the nerves of competition and when the points get close.

   
   

   As an ex Tennis tournament junior I was able to tap into my previous experience even though it was over 30 years ago. This experience helps when the points get close and you're in tournament situations. Your mental toughness can definately translate over to pickleball.