Don't Let This Mistake Ruin Your Transition Zone

From court awareness to court confidence—here’s what every player’s talking about.

Author

Empower Pickleball
November 06, 2025

Winter snuck up fast, and my body’s reminding me that “pickleball fit” and “gym fit” are two very different things for a rec player like me. I started cross-training this week with a trainer—the first time I’ve worked some of these muscles in years—and let’s just say I’m feeling it.

My goal is to be in top shape for next year’s tournament season. The reality? I’ll probably hibernate with a heating pad and scroll through eight more hours of pickleball TikToks “for research.” But I swear I’m sticking with the strength training this time.

TIPS & TRICKS

Pickleball IQ: Developing Better Court Awareness

Court awareness might be the most underrated skill in pickleball. It’s what separates organized teams from ones who look like they’re dodging traffic—especially in the transition zone. Knowing where you are (and where you should be) changes everything: your shot selection, balance, and ability to stay in control of the point.

Learning to move with purpose between the baseline and the kitchen isn’t easy, but it’s the difference between reacting and anticipating. From staying low and reading patterns to syncing with your partner, awareness is the quiet edge that wins rallies.


💡 Why It Matters: You can’t fix what you don’t notice. Sharpening your awareness might be the fastest way to play smarter.

OPINION & INSIGHTS

When a “Simple Question” Isn’t So Simple

A viral clip shows two women mid-rally when a man strolls up and asks, “What is this?” It seems harmless—until it’s not. His follow-up “compliments” quickly turn condescending, and suddenly the exchange feels less like curiosity and more like control.

It’s a scene women know all too well: the unsolicited interruption, the forced small talk, the balancing act between politeness and self-protection. Pickleball might be social, but safety and respect still matter.

  • Read the tone fast. Trust your instincts—if it feels off, it probably is.

  • Set a clear boundary. A simple “We’re mid-game, maybe later” is polite and firm.

  • Prioritize safety. If they won’t back off, step away or get support. Protecting your peace is reason enough.

Because what looks like a harmless question might be something else entirely.


💡 Why It Matters: Every woman deserves to play in peace—no explanations, no interruptions.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

All Eyes on the California Pickleball Association

California’s pickleball boom has a heart—and it’s CAPA. The California Pickleball Association is connecting players, coaches, and clubs statewide through tournaments, lessons, and community events that feel as friendly as they are competitive.

With 30+ volunteers, fair DUPR divisions, and thousands in prize money, CAPA makes every match matter while keeping the spirit of the game front and center.


💡 Why It Matters: CAPA proves organized doesn’t have to mean exclusive—it’s community, competition, and connection done right.

  • India Heads to the Collegiate World Stage 🌍 The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) is sending top collegiate players to represent India at the first-ever International Collegiate Pickleball Championship in Dallas, Texas. Over 400 athletes will compete for a $16K prize pool.

  • Pickleball’s Million-Dollar Prodigy 💰 At just 18, Anna Leigh Waters is both the sport’s top-ranked player and a full-blown brand. With seven-figure earnings from sponsors like Ulta Beauty, Delta, and RXBar, plus a $2M salary from the United Pickleball Association, she’s redefining what’s possible for female athletes in pickleball.

  • Instant Chemistry in the UK 🥉 At England’s National Championships, Hannah Nieuwenhuis and Lucy Carlin met for the first time the morning of their match—and still walked away with bronze in women’s doubles. The new duo won all their games before falling in the semis, proving good teamwork (and a lot of communication) can go a long way.

  • Celebrity Pickleball Hits Primetime 📺 Pickleball TV is stepping beyond live tournaments with its new unscripted series, Celebrity Pickleball, hosted by Matt Manasse. Stars like Drew Brees, Trae Young, James Valentine, and Katie Couric join Manasse for on-court training and off-court chats. The eight-episode season debuted yesterday, November 5 on PBTV.

Good Rallies Start with Clear Vision

Outdoor courts bring the glare, and RIA Eyewear brings the clarity. Made specifically for pickleball, their Court HD+ lenses help you see the ball more clearly against any background, without the distortion of standard polarized sunglasses.

They’re shatterproof, sweat-resistant, and available with or without a prescription. Comfortable, durable, and made for players who actually play.

This Week on Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil

Ever been frozen out in rec play or made to feel invisible? You’re not alone. Gina and Neil unpack the ball hogs, bullies, and court cliques that can take the fun out of the game—and how to handle them with confidence. Gina even shares a personal story that hits close to home.

📺 Watch it on YouTube
🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Jenna Wolfe at the Comfort Cases Pickleball Charity Event. Photo by Sarah Nekich.

Your New Pickleball + Travel MVP

I first grabbed the Sydney Premium Travel Bag for tournament weekends, but now it rarely leaves my side. It fits paddles, gear, and a full change of clothes without feeling heavy—and the built-in shelf means no more rummaging for your phone or car keys mid-match. Waterproof canvas, smart pockets, and a trolley sleeve that slides over your suitcase make it ideal for those early flights and long days at the courts.

It’s not just another tote—it’s the one bag that actually understands how pickleballers travel. Thoughtful, durable, and seriously functional.