Pickleball - Open Beginners Play
 

I have been playing pickleball for about seven weeks. I have never been super athletic, but am enjoying the game immensely. I took the intro class, have been showing up for beginners open play about three times per week, and am currently attending the mentorship classes. It is encouraging to me, that I get just a little better with each practice, and I am determined to increase my level of proficiency, while still keeping the emphasis on fun and exercise. What is frustrating to me, is the many very good players that show up for beginners open play. There are open play designations for beginners, advanced beginners and intermediate. As I enjoy playing and learning from those better than me, it is intimidating to play with those who are WAY better than me, playing themselves for many years, yet playing in beginners open play. Today in open play, I kept getting paired up with the same group, who were all very good players. I felt sorry for the person who was paired with me, as the games were all played very quickly with scores of 11-1, 11-0 and 11-2. It was almost impossible for me to return any of the serves, and I didn’t get any real practice in of hitting the ball back. Everyone was very nice, but I felt like such an anchor playing with these more highly experienced players in beginners open play. This has happened more than once during the open play. Sometimes I get grouped with actual other beginners, and that to me is more beneficial, getting more “volley” time in. As a single player, I don’t have the option of going to open play with an established group of 4 at my level of play. The friends and neighbors I have met that play, are all much more experienced than me. Maybe this is something I just need to “get over” and work through. I see myself improving with each practice, and I am very much determined to get good at this sport that I really enjoy. I am also thinking of taking private lessons to improve my game and technique. With that said, if there is anyone else that is fairly new to pickleball, that love it as much as I do, please message me, and it would be great to meet up and practice.

While waiting in line, just let folks know that you are a beginner who is here for 'beginner open play', and that you would like to play with other beginners. Then it is a simple matter of shuffling folks in line to make that happen. Remember, there is no rule stating that you have to walk out onto the court when you are first in line. You can let others go ahead of you and wait for others to join you at the front.

Good advise!

We all go through this when starting.

Nicer players adjust and try to help the newbees- practice the soft their game and try to feed balls they have a chance to hit.

Try to make friends with people you enjoy playing with a pick a time to get together.

Enjoy the game!

There are some players in all sports who like to play against lesser opposition, it makes them feel better about themselves.
If your ultra beginners is a class, and if I were the coach/organizer, I would turf the obviously non-beginners out.

What time is this beginners open play and where, that you are attending?

Excellent advice - thank you - I guess I was feeling “when you’re up, you’re up”.

I mix it up and play all over the place - today I played at Water Lily.

Are you playing between 7-10am? These times are OPEN play....meaning any level.
Or are you specifically going to Beg Open play that is scheduled in the Rec News?
Just wanted to clarify but it seems you are attending the latter, based on below comment..

10-12

"Beginner" to me encompasses quite a wide range of ability.People with natural athletic skills just starting to learn pickleball will be more skilled than "weekend warrior" types, who may have average or less physical abilities. Athletically talented players can be very good beginners, but still beginners. They will climb up the skill level latter more quickly than the average Joe. Thus you may have a mix for awhile, until the more talented players move on and up. Eventually each will find his place with similar level players.

Michael, your situation is common. Sometimes it's a matter of stronger players wanting to beat weaker players, but more often it is a matter of players being afraid to move up as they improve, into the next stronger division. As suggested before, if you find yourself in a group that seems to be too strong for you, and the numbers keep working out that you are playing with the same 4-some every turn, step aside and invite someone else to take your place. When you find the compatible skill level, those players will be as happy to see you as you are to find them. Try to stick with that group.
Also, very often people will exchange names and contact information, in order to form groups of compatible players and set up times outside of open play. This opens up a world of pickleball and social life.
Four years ago my wife was a brand new beginner. Now she's a solid intermediate, with more pickleball friends than I can keep track of. She has more groups and invitations than she can accept.

That's The Villages, Baby/

My wife went through the same thing. At one court beginner play began at 10 but the advanced players that started during open play refused to leave. The people at that particular rec center refused to do anything about it. Some rec centers (Mulberry especially) were good about monitoring it. My wife finally quit PB and took up golf.

Don't give up. State to the line you are a beginner looking for other beginners to play. Maybe, those that are sandbagging will be shamed into shuffling around.

I teach two PCVG beginner groups and I always warn them to avoid the bullies that are too often on the beginner courts. It's a pet peeve of mine.....can you tell? lol

Fascinating to see someone else mirror my experience. My wife and I consider ourselves athletic, but were also 'intimidated' right out of the game by playing at 'Beginner open' advertised times, where it became obvious to us that few were actual beginner's. We began to recognize the 'pickleball snobs' of the community. At multiple venues I might add. We finally just decided to keep the paddles on the shelf and continue on our quest to become professional golfer's. I'm sure we'll revisit someday, and I fully realize that had we persisted, I'm sure we would have found a compatible and nurturing group-but in the meantime we should all try to counter those with attitudes.

No, there are more than a few "veterans", who have been playing for years, who enjoy beating the crap out beginners. It's an ego thing...

The Boss and my first foray into pickleball ended badly. We had watched the video, taken both Beginning Pickleball part 1 & 2, but had never actually played...

While waiting in line, there was an obvious veteran (he had ALL the gear, much of it quite shopworn), spouting off about how he hates it when "these newbies" show up, and don't know what they are doing...

We were taken aback, and figured that was our invitation to leave... We stuck around, just to watch for a while (btw, you can learn a lot watching others play), and we saw this guy absolutely crush his opponents. The joy he took in doing so was so off putting, we seriously considered giving up before we started...

But we took Pickleball Part 2 a 2nd time, felt much better about our game and when to a different Open Beginners rec center. The people we played with were so much more accepting and inviting. Offering tips, and putting up with out mistakes. We also found that at pretty much any rec center we played at. The other players we inviting, encouraging and quite nice.

When I had to return north to work, my wife stayed in TV and kept playing.

She's met several very nice people, and has run into them at various courts...

One final thing... She was paired up with another single and they were playing against another "bully"... Neither she, nor her partner could return very many serves, and the game wasn't fun for anyone (except for the bully). She finally called him out, asking why he was playing "beginner's pickleball" when he was obviously a much better player? He then became quite condescending, lobbing serves, asking "Is that one okay?", "Did I hit it too hard?" She told him to "Stop being an ass! We're here to have fun!" (she's had practice saying that when talking to me! :thumbup:)

When the game was over, he gathered up his stuff and left. Several people in line then thanked her, saying he was a regular, who always played like that...

Just show up, enjoy the game, ignore the jerks. Sadly, you'll run into one of them from time to time. Just smile and do your best.

Wait, who are you and why are you posting my story??? :clap2::clap2::clap2::icon_wink:

Keep trying, you'll find your niche... Ignore the jerks (or call them out, like my wife did...)

Speaking of golf, I remember heading out as a single on one of the championship courses one afternoon...

I was paired with 3 women, who became very nervous when I showed up.

They were obviously beginners, but we all were at one time, right?

I think I scared the crap out of them when I striped my first drive right down the middle (probably the only one that afternoon...:1rotfl:) But they persisted...

The only advice I gave them, was If you're going to play badly, do it quickly...

We had an absolutely wonderful time! They were a hoot! I don't think I ever had that much fun playing golf! They trash talked better than most of the guys I play with...

We exchanged numbers as they wanted to play with me again... Unfortunately, we haven't been able to make that happen, yet...

Years ago we took PB101 class. After instruction and rules, the instructor paired everyone in doubles. The couple we played with kicked the ever-loving crap out of us. When I mentioned it to the husband, he said he had only played "for a couple of years" and his wife "several more". Then he just laughed and I knew right then he was one of those players.

In the end the good guy gets the girl

Michael61–Richmond courts are reserved on Thursdays, 4-5:50pm, thru the Richmond FB group event (if you follow the that). May want to check that out & play with other player levels.

There are players that are new to pickleball but are or were accomplished tennis players. That's people are initially very good at beginner play as they can hit the ball very hard and well from the baseline. They start out well but if they do not learn the soft game they do not advance to the intermediate level. They just stay at the beginner level and intimidate other beginners. Your best option is to find a group that has good beginners that have reserved time after 12 noon. There are many pickleball groups that have reserved time with a true mix of levels so all can play and feel comfortable. You said you played at water lilly so I assume you are south of 44. Just keep signing up for BMP and you will get there.

I can't believe your scenario OP. Beginner's open play should be be for BEGINNERS!!! As others have said I would keep asking how long people have been playing and calling them out on not being beginners if that's the case. I hope you keep at it and avoid the idiots that are where they shouldn't be.

And remember, that if you find a jerk in the group, there are others who recognize the jerk. You won't be the only one who wants to avoid the jerk.

Sent you a PM

It's not just you. My friend and I have had the same experience with beginner pickelball. Probably the nature of some sports to be competitive. I took basic training for water volleyball and even that was competitive where I never got the ball once, the taller players reaching over me. The second time I ever golfed (at a pitch and putt no less) someone walked up to the tee and shouted at me they were waiting. I've soured on all three of the sports and don't need that aggravation. I've found other more pleasant activities and people to play with. Good luck if you decide to stay with pickelball.

Always bring a water bottle to any pickleball court that you play at. If you get in with a group your not having fun with be sure to go to your water bottle and get a drink and get in line several players behind your prior group. Don't play with people that your not having a good time with.

Unfortunately, your pickleball intimidation experience is not uncommon when starting. Try playing at Santiago courts in the AM during open play. Ask for a Hot and Spicy group member. It's a great group, fun and social, that warmly accepts newbees.

This is great advice. I’d add that taking a bathroom break also let’s you move back in the line.

The bullies are at every level and do stay through advanced beginner and beginner time schedules. I wish the courts were monitored. I also wish the more advanced players would help teach new people. Kindness is everywhere in the Villages but unfortunately we do see bullies on many pickleball courts. I started a neighborhood group for beginners and we play in the evening. Kindness is the rule. Everyone tries to help newbies. It is so much more enjoyable. Try to get a group of your own started. Courts are usually open after 5 or 6 pm. Good luck. Hang in there and enjoy.

Same
 

I had the same experience a few years back with Platform Tennis. It was so bad I left in tears and never played again. The “beginners” had been playing together for a few years and didn’t want to break up the group, so they kept coming. I, as a former tennis player, was messing up their game while trying to get used to the length of the racquet and weight of the ball. I was humiliated and embarrassed and never got to play a sport I thought would be a good fit.
I hear you….

Good point! Good players should not play in beginners open play just to get in some extra play or wait in a short line. And remember that pickle ball is not without danger. I have a close friend who is extremely athletic and agile and when learning pickle ball was matched the way you were. This led to a fall and a broken wrist.

///

In order for me to play with my wife I have to play "beneath" my level, but the common courtesy when doing so is to try to keep points going by hitting shots that are challenging for the opponent, but not intimidating or impossible to return.

Of course, sometimes this is harder than hitting the obvious winner, and a shot I would have easily put away goes into the net and makes me look like a doofus. But that's OK. Egos should be put aside when playing in that circumstance.

Also infuriating is the guy who should be playing a step or two higher, but loves to hit drives at weaker players. Often the weaker player is a player who may not even have the hand-eye coordination to protect his or her face from the shot. I've had words with a few of these guys. It is perfectly acceptable to refuse to be on the court with them. Believe me, everyone in the line knows who this guy is, and he should be shunned until he finds the group where he belongs and isn't dangerous.

It's called sandbagging. experienced players preying on beginners. only way to overcome this is to get better. you get better is by a lot of practice and playing against people that are better than you. get to know players that are at your level and advance as your technique improves - it will with practice.

I agree with you. Experienced players should not be allowed in the time slot for Beginners Only. The Rec Centers should have control over this so actual beginners can play and gain the confidence they need to move up. I played with a neighbor once just to volley you would have thought she was in the World's Olympics the way she served to me who had never played. It ruins the fun of the game. I play golf much better than when I first arrived. I play solo often and when I am playing with a beginner I give them tons of encouragement even when the shots are way off course. If you want to play real beginners PB look me up. I will play with you.

It would be impossible to enforce. At what point, and with exactly how much experience does one no longer qualify to be at a specific level. The players know, and some of the players in the line may enjoy playing with a better player, others will not. The best enforcement is to simply say "no thanks, I'll wait"..

Every level has a variety of skills within that level. The "Intermediate" level is the largest demographic in the sport. At the lower end you have players who have just graduated from "Advanced Beginner" and are likely a bit trepidatious about playing with the intermediates. At the top end you have players who could probably compete, but maybe not win any games, at the "Advanced" Open Play.

Unfortunately, very often, the new arrivals at the bottom of the spectrum are treated as if they don't belong when they do move up, and happen to draw the better players in the group. To the best "Intermediate" players, a player who would be accused of "sandbagging" at "Advanced Beginner" may look like he/she doesn't belong there, and may be made to feel unwelcome. So that player moves back down to where he or she is comfortable, and then gets accused of sandbagging.

So, don't be shy about saying "no thank you"...if they are that much better than you are, they'll be just as glad you did.

So much good, helpful, and encouraging posts here - thanks everyone! I was in mentorship group today at Clarendon - partnered with three other “beginners” and we had a great time with a great coach (Diane). We got lots of good rallys in, as we all were pretty evenly matched by our skill level. I’ve received a few private messages, and will try and respond to them by tomorrow - This is such a great site in helping me acclimate to all things Villages!😀

New to pickle ball!
 

I would love to learn to play! Maybe we should recruit others to get 4 of us!

Wow! Was his name Narcissist? Wonder if he likes playing against people who are better than him?

Court personality
 

If there is one thing I've learned playing PB here in The Villages for 12 years is that each court has its own personality. Not only that, but the personality may change from one time slot to another.
Some courts are dominated by gender, others by skill level yet others by long established cliques.
My advise is try different courts and times until you find one where you fit in and are well accepted. It may take a while but you will find it with well over 200 courts in TV. Good luck.

I agree with your basic premise on court personality. However, times set aside for beginner players should not be a crap shoot. There should ONLY be beginner players on that court at that time. A possible exception is a person or spouse working with a beginner to learn the game.

I think you are almost right, but not quite completely right. I think it would be more correct to say that all play should be with the beginner in mind. Stronger players should moderate their aggressiveness in order to provide a level of play that challenges, but does not overwhelm, the others on the court.

An intermediate or advanced player can do this, and most will. Anyone who is strong enough to overwhelm, and chooses to do so, should simply be told "no thank you" by those who don't wish to play that game. Sooner, rather than later, that player will find another venue.