🎯 Shot(s) of the Week — when ATPs get returned with even more audacity
🎬 Behind-the-Back Magic — because apparently physics is optional
🎯 Backhand Rolls (6.0 Edition) — slow motion, clean contact, and swing-path clarity
🔄 Forehand ATPs — geometry, side spin, and a solo drill you can actually practice
🇳🇿 Pickleball in New Zealand — rec-center courts, Kiwi vibes, and a growing scene

Let’s get to it!

This might be the moment I start a “shot of the week” section.

Because… wow.

I know — we just had a Shot of the Week.

But then this behind-the-back winner showed up, and rules are meant to be broken.

So let’s settle it:

If these were the only two nominees this week…
Which one wins?

The ATP UNO-reverse
or
The behind-the-back magic

There are no wrong answers. Only good pickleball. 😮‍🔥🎯

This reel shows how a 6.0 hits a backhand roll — slowed way down and off a tee so you can actually see where the paddle sweeps the ball for different placements:
down the line, crossbody, and crosscourt.

I love seeing the contact point and swing path this clearly.

That said… I do have questions about the grip.
It looks pretty aggressive, which makes me wonder how quickly you transition if the ball comes back hot to your forehand.

Either way, this one’s worth watching.

Also, I now need a tee ball stand.

Last week, we covered the 3 types of backhand ATPs — knife, hook, and two-handed — and collectively realized there are levels to this shot (click here to read last week’s breakdown).

Well… this week the algorithm delivered the perfect sequel.

This tutorial breaks down how to hit a forehand ATP — and more importantly, how to practice it by yourself (which immediately got my attention).

What I loved about this one:
• It explains the geometry of the shot (closer to the net = more angle)
• It emphasizes getting there early so you can actually get outside the ball
• It focuses on side spin, not topspin, so the ball curves around the post
• And it shows a super simple way to self-feed and drill it solo

If you’ve never hit an ATP before, this makes it feel… attainable.
And if you have hit them before? This gives you a cleaner way to practice on purpose.

I love this shot.
I love that he demystifies it.
And I love any drill that doesn’t require a second human.

If forehand ATPs are on your wishlist, this one’s worth your time.

I made it to New Zealand safely — and we found pickleball. 🏓

Huge thanks to our awesome hosts for taking us to the Wanaka Recreation Center in Wanaka (just south of Queenstown), where we jumped into open play this morning.

Quick context:
• Indoor rec center
• Wood gym floor
• Indoor balls
• Lines that require serious concentration

Not my favorite playing conditions 😅 — but still super fun.

The place was packed. Eight courts going, people rotating in, and others waiting their turn. They ran play on a 10-minute timer: when the buzzer went off, you rotated courts, whether your game was finished or not. Simple, efficient, and very Kiwi.

The level wasn’t advanced — pickleball is still pretty new here — but the vibes were excellent. Lance and I focused on good rallies instead of put-aways, and one of the women actually thanked us afterward for being such “courteous players.” It was good for us to practice restraint.

She also let us in on a little secret:
There is an advanced group.

She gave us the Facebook page, asked how long we’d be in town (another week), and said we could probably round up some higher-level players for advanced games.

So of course… we immediately requested to join the Wanaka Pickleball Facebook group. Still waiting for approval, but I’m optimistic. 😏

Bottom line:
✔️ Yes, there is pickleball in New Zealand
✔️ Yes, it’s growing fast
✔️ Yes, the people are lovely

If you’re ever traveling through Queenstown or Wanaka, you’ll absolutely find a game — especially if you’re happy to play indoors and meet new people.

And don’t worry…
If we find the advanced players this week, you’ll be the first to hear about it.

If this had you rethinking what’s possible — from ridiculous ATP exchanges to drilling shots you used to think were off-limits — send this to a partner who appreciates both skill and creativity.

If this landed in your inbox via a friend, hit subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s drop.

Until next week…
may your ATPs bend around the post, your shot selection stay bold, and your pickleball adventures take you places you didn’t expect.

— Janelle 🏓✨

P.S. Valentine’s Day is coming up, which means it’s time for an important conversation:

Do you want dinner…
or do you want open play?

Choose wisely. 🏓💘