More Confidence, More Control, More Pickleball

We've wrapped up a month of inspiring stories.. Now, let's fine-tune your game and get ready for a gear-packed March.

Author

Empower Pickleball
February 27, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes

What a month. February gave us a chance to highlight some incredible athletes for Black History Month, players who are shaping the sport and making the game more accessible for everyone. If you missed any of their stories, we’ve got one more this week that’s worth a read.

The tease of spring had us hopeful, but rain over this way has kept the courts a litttttle to slick to play. If you’re in the same boat, now’s time to focus on the little things.

In this issue:

  • Tips & Tricks  🏓 Adjust your grip for better control and more precise shots

  • Health & Wellness 🧠 Tips to shake off the nerves and play better with new people

  • Community Spotlight 🌍 Aisha Stith is introducing thousands to pickleball

And looking ahead, March is packed with the latest gear picks, so stay tuned for what’s worth adding to your bag. Rain or shine, we’re keeping the pickleball energy going. Let’s get into it.

Tips & Tricks

Loosen Up! Small Tweaks, Big Wins 🏓

If your paddle grip is so tight it could crush a walnut, you’re just making things harder on yourself. Too loose? Well, good luck controlling your shots. The trick is finding that sweet spot — firm but relaxed, like holding a can of your favorite seltzer without denting it.

Another easy fix? Keep your paddle up and in front — not dangling by your side like you’re waiting for an Uber. Quick reactions start with good positioning. And if your grip is looking more worn than your favorite sneakers, it’s time for a refresh — because better traction = better control.

Small changes, big difference. Here’s how to fine-tune your grip and start hitting with confidence.

The Titan Ignite is serving you a spark to excel.

Craft with a premium Toray T700 Carbon Fiber surface and a PP Honeycomb Core for the perfect blend of power, precision, and comfort.

Exclusive for Empower Pickleball readers: You can take 10% off at check with the code EMPOWER10. Click here to start shopping.

Health & Wellness

Shake Off the Nerves 😬

New game, new partner, new potential for chaos. But confidence isn’t about playing perfectly; it’s about settling in, speaking up, and having fun (without overthinking every shot). A few quick tweaks can make all the difference:

  • Break the ice with a “Nice to meet you! I’ll call mine early” works wonders

  • Hype yourself up and ditch the don’t mess up talk and go with let’s go for it!

  • Read the room because some partners lead, some follow… just roll with it.

Still feeling the nerves? Here’s how to shake ‘em off and own the court.

How do you feel about playing with new partners?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

Community

More Players, More Community 🏆

Aisha Stith didn’t just stumble into pickleball. She’s making sure more people, especially Black communities, get the same chance to play. As one of the co-founders of Pickleballin’ Lifestyle Club, she’s introduced thousands to the sport, proving that pickleball is about more than just competition. Pickleball is about connection, culture, and creating space for everyone.

“This is the first sport where I can see myself progressing,” Aisha shares. “I use my story as inspiration for those who say, ‘I’m not athletic.’ If I can do it, anyone can.”

From growing the game at the grassroots level to pushing for more representation in pickleball, she’s building something bigger than the sport itself with Pickleballin’ Lifestyle Club.

WHAT’S HAPPENING