JW Johnson has played over 100 matches these past three months on the APP Tour starting with midwest stops in Cincinnati to Southern California, back to the midwest, and finally this past weekend’s tour stop in Bend, Oregon. He is doing what is needed to mold his game into the type of player he wants to be. Learning from both his wins and losses, JW is one of the most improved players on the tour, and has all the makings and support from his family to ascend to the top of the men’s game. Here are three things this 18 year-old does so well, that any developing player can learn from his characteristics and approach to the game:
1. “Quick Hands” - the kid has unbelievably quick hands as can be seen in rapid fast exchanges while at the net. JW keeps his paddle up using the proper continental grip, and by being balanced and centered with his weight, can play both offensively and defensively on any ball sent at him, regardless if it’s hard or soft. Developing quicker reflexes can be drilled with a simple technique at any age by volleying against a wall. Stand five feet back and keep closing in after striking the ball until your a foot from the wall. Work on softening the hands while maintaining centered body position using your legs and not a bent back. JW has been able to win many exchanges at the net when both in offensive and defensive positions due to solid fundamentals and body positioning when in reflex exchanges.
2. “Less is Best”- When you watch JW play live, there is very little sound off his paddle from the ball as he always finds his sweet spot. He hits a very clean ball, rarely mis hitting or shanking the shot, because there is no excessive backswings which could cause for error with his technique. His strokes are compact, without extra motion, which enables him to not cough up unforced errors technically, especially on windy days. The key to successful play are solid mechanics and JW at a young age has mastered his technique so now he can develop has strategies and winning patterns of play. If the technique is not there, the strategies will not be executed to their potential.
3. “Explosive First Step”- having been back in the grand slam tennis pros locker rooms, there is one element every player must do to compete at their highest level, and that is moving your feet. Agassi, Connors, Federer, and Serena are all jumping rope before they go on center court. Having that explosive first step is equally vital in pickleball from transferring to the no volley zone from the backcourt, to lateral mobility when placed out wide while at the kitchen line, JW has an incredible first step. He has the ability to move effortless as he is always on his “toes” when transitioning and not his heel. As we all get older, footwork plays a significant part in everyone’s play. Old school jumping rope gets you on the balls of your feet, and enables a quicker first step or shuffling in the driveway can be just as beneficial for lateral movement. (Read More)
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