In Partnership with
VKTRY: Performance Insoles
Hope Health and Wellness: Comprehensive Health Solutions
Diadem Pickleball Complex
GAMMA: High Performance Paddles
LifeWave: Elevate, Activate, Regenerate

Over the past few months, the loudest conversation in pickleball hasn’t been about strategy or footwork—it’s been about paddles. Core crush, foam cores, “hot” paddles, deflection tests… the technology is evolving faster than most players can keep up with. This week, I break down what’s actually happening inside modern paddles, why durability and fairness have become real issues, and what all of this means for you as a player.

Read the full article here.

Watching these two videos back‑to‑back — one from Ben Johns and one from Zach — tells you something important about pro‑level pickleball instruction: it’s impressive, it’s polished, and it’s almost always built for a game most recreational players don’t actually play. Pros break down patterns, timing windows, deception, footwork, and micro‑adjustments that only work when everyone on the court is consistent, balanced, and technically sound.

For rec players, though? These videos are fascinating to watch but nearly impossible to apply. They reveal more about how pros think than how everyday players improve.

Ben Johns is the greatest pickleball player on the planet — no debate there. But that’s exactly why videos like this can be a mixed bag for everyday rec players. The strategies he uses are brilliant at the pro level, yet many of them simply don’t translate cleanly to the chaotic, inconsistent world of recreational pickleball. Here’s the real story.

The second video dives deep into “elite dinking,” but it quickly becomes clear that this isn’t the kind of dinking most recreational players ever see—or need. Zach breaks down advanced patterns, short‑hop timing, spin recognition, and micro‑adjustments that only work when both players at the kitchen line are consistent, balanced, and technically polished. It’s fascinating to watch, but it reveals just how far removed pro‑level dinking strategy is from the unpredictable, scrappy reality. Here’s the real story.

If you’re playing regularly, the paddle you choose can make a big difference in your confidence and performance on the court. GAMMA offers several paddles designed for different playing styles.

Use code PBT20 to save 20% at www.gammasports.com. 

That’s right—if you haven’t heard yet, DPC Coconut Creek is rolling out a brand-new 2026 clinic lineup featuring PPA pros Juan Benitez and Nicole Conard, alongside DPC Director Gene DeVito and teaching pros Amore Cook and Madison Henry.

With daily rotating clinics, they cover everything from beginner fundamentals to advanced, pro-focused topics—there’s truly something for every level. Additionally, DPC now hosts 4 amateur tournaments each month, in addition to its highly popular seasonal six-week leagues. 

What are you waiting for? Jump on PlayByPoint and check the schedule for Diadem Pickleball Complex – Coconut Creek today. www.diadempickleballcomplex.com

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Play Stronger. Recover Faster. Stay in the Game.

To schedule a free 30-minute consult with Leah to learn about different patches, please click the calendar link here: 30 Minute Meeting - Leah Stasney

The companies that support this newsletter all have one thing in common: they help you feel better on the court and enjoy the game longer.

VKTRY Performance Insoles provide your feet with more support and spring, so quick moves feel easier and long sessions don’t leave you feeling worn out.

GAMMA paddles (especially the Knockout) are built for players who want dependable touch and put-away power without fighting their equipment.

LifeWave patches are used by players seeking more energy, improved mobility, and faster recovery between sessions—without pills or supplements.

Hope Health and Wellness helps players address the aches and nagging issues that come with frequent play, so small problems don’t turn into time off the court.

Supporting these partners helps keep this newsletter free—and gives you tools that actually show up when you play. Thanks for taking a look.

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