In pickleball coaching, one of the most effective ways to help players improve isn’t adding more drills or fancy equipment—it’s simply letting them know what they’re working on and what success looks like. When players understand the goal of the session, they focus better, stay more engaged, and make faster progress.
Why Setting Expectations Works
When players start a lesson unsure of the plan, it’s easy for their attention to drift. But when the goal is clear from the outset, they know where to direct their energy—and that makes your session more productive.
Here’s what happens when you start with clear expectations:
Improved Focus – Players know what to pay attention to and can stay locked in on the task at hand.
Stronger Learning – When they understand what “success” looks like, they can make smarter decisions and self-correct more easily.
Better Use of Time – With a shared objective, you spend less time explaining and more time doing meaningful work.
How to Set Expectations Effectively
You don’t need a long speech. Just take a few seconds to clarify the plan and what you want players to accomplish.
Be Specific
Instead of saying, “Let’s work on serves,” try this:
“Today we’re learning how to serve deep and consistently. Your goal is to land 8 out of 10 serves within three feet of the baseline.”
Define Success Clearly
Give players a target. For example:
“If your serve lands deep and forces a weak return, that’s a win. If it’s short and gets attacked, you know what to fix.”
Check for Understanding
Before you start, ask:
“What are we working on?”
If players can’t answer, take a moment to reframe. That clarity will pay off later in the session.
Final Thoughts
Even great drills fall flat when players don’t understand the point. But when you set expectations at the start, you give your players direction, motivation, and a better shot at success.
Next time you plan a lesson, ask yourself: “Do my players know the goal?” If not, take a moment to spell it out. Set the stage, and watch your sessions come to life.