Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, includes various specialized shots, one of which is the Pickleball Erne. This advanced technique involves striking the ball on the outer side of the court’s sideline while executing a surprise shot.
Understanding the Erne Shot
When you play pickleball the Erne shot is an advanced shot or advanced move where a player moves close to the non-volley zone (NVZ) line in the pickleball court to strike the ball before it bounces, surprising the opponent.
The Erne pickleball, a highly competitive play, represents an unexpected maneuver often employed during dinking rallies when all four players are positioned at the net, although it can occur in other scenarios. It’s not uncommon to witness this move following a drop shot from the baseline or even right after the return.
Considered an advanced technique, Erne in pickleball requires precise timing, rapid movement, and specific setup, particularly when initiated from the NVZ line. While executing it from a baseline drop is plausible, it’s not advisable due to its complexity and demands an exceedingly high skill level to execute successfully.
To execute an Erne, a player steps beyond the inner part of the court, positioning themselves on the opposite side of either the right or left sideline, advancing to stand parallel with the kitchen. This stance places them outside the kitchen area but within legal bounds. Striking the ball occurs close to the net, while the ball is still in the air, allowing the player to legally engage with it at such proximity to the net.
What is the Origin of the Term “Erne”?
The Erne shot, also referred to simply as the Erne, originated from a videographer named Jeff Shank, who observed Erne Perry utilizing this technique extensively during the 2010 USAPA National Pickleball Tournament in Buckeye, Arizona. Although Perry didn’t create the shot, he frequently employed it to control rallies, ultimately gaining recognition for popularizing this move in competitive play. Consequently, the term “Erne” emerged to describe this particular shot.
Is Erne Legal?
The legality of the Erne hinges on maintaining a position outside the kitchen area. Both feet must be situated beyond the sideline before making contact with the ball, and the contact itself must occur on your side of the net. It’s important not to reach over and touch the ball before it crosses the net onto your side.
The element of surprise is inherent to the Erne, catching opponents off guard due to its offensive nature. As it is often executed without the opponent’s anticipation, when properly set up and performed, the Erne frequently results in scoring a point.
Mastering the Erne Shot: Key Elements
- Positioning and Footwork: Proper positioning near the NVZ line and footwork are crucial for a successful Erne.
- Timing and Precision: Execute the shot with precise timing to catch opponents off guard.
- Surprise Element: The Erne shot is about creating a surprise volley to gain an advantage.
How to Perform the Erne Shot: Step-by-Step Guide
Performing an Erne requires understanding specific rules and techniques.
1. Positioning:
- Near the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) Line: Begin by positioning yourself close to the NVZ line, but make sure one of your feet remains outside this zone to avoid faulting.
2. Anticipation and Movement:
- Read the Game: Anticipate the opponent’s shot, especially during a dinking rally when all players are near the net.
- Quick Movement: React swiftly to the opponent’s shot by moving towards the outer side of either the right or left sideline.
3. Stance and Setup:
- Parallel to the Kitchen: As you reach the outer part of the court, position yourself parallel to the kitchen line while standing outside its bounds.
- Lower Your Body: Bend your knees slightly, getting into a ready position to strike the ball.
4. Striking the Ball:
- Timing is Crucial: Wait for the ball to be in the air and strike it before it bounces, preferably very close to the net.
- Use of Paddle: Utilize a controlled but swift motion of your paddle to successfully hit the ball accurately.
5. Follow Through:
- Recovery Position: After executing the Erne shot, swiftly return to your position inside the court, being ready for the opponent’s response.
Tips for Mastering the Erne Shot
- Practice Footwork: Develop agility and footwork to move quickly and efficiently towards the sidelines while maintaining balance.
- Timing and Precision: Practice timing your strikes to connect with the ball effectively before it bounces, enhancing the surprise element.
- Be Patient: Mastering the Erne shot takes time and practice. Start with slower rallies and gradually increase the pace as your skills develop.
- Learn from Experts: Watch videos or observe pro pickleball players executing the Erne shot to understand the technique and strategy better.
Mastering the Erne shot in pickleball is an art that combines precision, surprise, and strategic execution. This advanced technique, born from the innovative playstyle of Erne Perry, has become a defining move in the game. Executing an Erne requires not only technical skill but also an understanding of the game’s rules and the element of surprise. When executed correctly, the Erne can be a game-changer, offering a competitive advantage that catches opponents off guard and often results in scoring points.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the term “Erne” in pickleball?
The term “Erne” originated from Jeff Shank, a videographer who observed Erne Perry employing this technique extensively during the 2010 USAPA National Pickleball Tournament in Buckeye, Arizona. While Perry didn’t invent the shot, his adept use of it contributed significantly to popularizing this move in competitive play.
Is the Erne shot legal in pickleball?
Yes, the Erne shot is legal as long as both feet are positioned outside the sideline before striking the ball, and the contact occurs on your side of the net. It’s crucial not to reach over and touch the ball before it crosses the net onto your side.
What are the key elements to master the Erne shot?
The key elements for mastering the Erne shot include proper positioning near the non-volley zone (NVZ) line, precise timing, and creating a surprise volley to catch opponents off guard. It’s essential to maintain balance, footwork, and a controlled strike close to the net.
How can beginners perform the Erne shot?
Beginners can learn to execute the Erne shot by understanding the rules and practicing specific techniques. This includes proper positioning, anticipation, quick movement, and precise timing. Learning from experienced players through observation and practice drills can significantly aid in mastering this advanced shot.
What tips can help in mastering the Erne shot?
To master the Erne shot, focus on developing footwork, timing, and precision. Patience is key; start with slower rallies and gradually increase speed. Additionally, watching videos of pro pickleball players executing the Erne shot and learning from their strategies can be beneficial in improving your technique.