The one shot most rec players avoid (but shouldn’t)

From better backhands to pickleball pride and luxe retreats, this week’s newsletter serves up skills, stories, and what’s still holding the sport back.

Author

Empower Pickleball
June 05, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

If you’re anything like me, you were a little too excited for the new season of Love Island USA to drop. And yes, I did a double take when it was casually mentioned that two of the bombshells play pickleball. Is the sport officially mainstream? Debatable. But I’m choosing to believe we’re in our pop culture era.

Meanwhile, my own court time has been less dramatic… no villa, no slow-motion walk-ins, but still full of good hits, quick hands, and a few new bruises (occupational hazard). I’ve also been thinking a lot about what it means when we say pickleball is for everyone. That phrase gets thrown around a lot, but this week’s lineup is a reminder that, when done right, it’s not just a slogan. It’s an active choice to create space, welcome new players, and build programs that reach beyond the usual crowd.

TIPS & TRICKS

Your Backhand Called… It’s Ready for a Glow-Up

Tired of running around your backhand? It might be time to fix it instead. This guide covers small but powerful tweaks that can help you stop slicing into the net and start rolling with confidence. With a few smart drills and a grip adjustment or two, you’ll finally get the control and power you've been missing.

  • Learn how to brush up for clean topspin

  • Build better paddle control with wall drills

  • Improve footwork for balance and strength


💡 Why It Matters: Fixing your backhand opens up shots you’ve been avoiding, and keeps opponents from picking on your weak side.

INSIGHTS

What’s Still Getting in the Way?

Pickleball might be everywhere, but not everyone gets the same welcome. This piece breaks down what’s still keeping the sport from being truly inclusive, and what we can do about it.

  • Physical access: Lack of courts, mobility challenges, and costly fees

  • Representation: Who’s reflected in the spotlight (and who’s not)

  • Affordability: Gear, court time, and travel costs add up fast

  • Gatekeeping: Rec culture that can feel exclusive or intimidating


💡 Why It Matters: If we want pickleball to be for everyone, we have to start by asking who’s still being left out.

COMMUNITY

Making Space for the Next Gen

Junior players finally have a program built just for them. The APP Tour’s invite-only Next Gen Series offers real coaching, community, and prize money for athletes aged 16 to 23, proving that youth development isn’t an afterthought… it’s a priority. With a national training hub, mentorship from top coaches, and a new Junior Circuit, the APP is giving young players more ways to grow, compete, and feel like they belong.


💡 Why It Matters: Investing in young players helps build a stronger, more inclusive future for the sport.

For Players Who Can’t Get Enough Court Time

If you’re the type who plays ‘just one more game’ five times in a row, VKTRY insoles might be your new obsession. Designed with aerospace-grade carbon fiber (seriously), these shock-absorbing, energy-returning insoles help you stay on the court longer, with less strain on your joints.

Get 20% off your first pair by clicking here.

This Week on Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil

We’ve all seen it (or played it): the slow, dink-heavy Karen style vs. the power-hitting Banger energy. Gina and Neil unpack what these rec play personas say about your game, how to actually get better by doing the uncomfortable thing, and why avoiding strong players might be holding you back.

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

Honestly? I Want These Boots So Bad

I haven’t pulled the trigger yet, but these are officially on my wishlist. Therabody’s JetBoots Prime are wireless compression boots designed to reduce soreness, improve mobility, and boost blood flow… without needing to be tethered to a pump or outlet. They fold down small, come with a travel bag, and honestly look like the kind of recovery gear that makes you feel like a serious athlete, even if you’re just trying to bounce back after rec night.

Yes, the price is steep… but I’m intrigued. And if you’ve tried them, please report back.