
How to Erne, ATP, and backhand counter like the pros
From Ernes to ATPs, pro pickleball players showcase some of the game’s most advanced shots and technique, so if you’re looking to elevate your own, there’s no better place to learn than from the best.
Hayden Patriquin - Erne
“My signature shot is probably the Erne. For that shot, you’ve got to have really good anticipation and hit the right setup shot. It’s all about setting up the first shot to get you the opening to hit it. You can go to my skool and learn how to do it.”
Caden Nemoff – Backhand ATP
“You have to hit a lot of backhands, be more athletic, and explosive if you want to hit that shot. The best way to do that is to familiarize yourself with the motion. Have someone feed you a dink, hit a dink back, they feed a good ball for it, then you go for it. But it’s a trick shot, so it’s tough to practice. I think it’s more about playing more and recognizing those patterns. The more you play, the more you can recognize when your opponent is going for an ATP. You’re looking for their head to be down, seeing their paddle a little bit behind themselves, and if you can recognize that, then you’re in a good spot.”
Blaine Hovenier – Backhand Counter
“If you want to level up that shot, you’re going to need faster hands, so definitely incorporate some fast hands drills into your routine. But also, think about as if you’re literally punching the ball. Most people try and go down, but instead, think of it like you’re punching forward.”
Etta Tuionetoa – Backhand Flick
“You have to get out there and get as many reps as you can. You really have to experiment and feel the ball and how it comes off your paddle. Get used to that motion. It’s really about practice. The best way is to have someone hand-feed you the ball right in front of you so that you can work on the motion.”
Dylan Frazier – Forehand ATP
“I don’t hit a forehand ATP super frequently, but I feel like I execute it a good percentage of the time when it’s given to me. To hit one, you’ve got to have good footwork, early preparation, and have a good read on the wide angle dink. Then, watch the ball and go for it. When I practice it, I just have someone throw the ball hard into the kitchen that’s going out of bounds and then you can catch up to it and hit it around the post.”
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