I threw my pickleball paddle.
Like an impetuous little cry baby, I tossed it into an empty bench.
It soared like a Frisbee, garnering several audible gasps from surrounding players.
I tell you this not because I am proud but because days later, I’m still embarrassed.
The catalyst? I went one and six in games against lateral competition and I couldn’t point to a single reason why. I reverted back to that 14-year-old boy who once smashed a tennis racket against the tree. But that was a hormonal rage brought on by girl trouble.
Decades later, and a much more mellow dude, there is no excuse for my pickleball frustration to be left on the court.
Drew Pierce is a USA Pickleball Ambassador, PPR certified coach, and tennis crossover who covers beginner tips, paddle releases, and the sport’s growing culture. Read more on his About page or tune into Pickle Rock Radio.