Managing Conflict in Pickleball: Why I Don’t Go to the Net

Let’s be real—pickleball isn’t just about drop shots and dinks. Sometimes, it’s about managing people. And sometimes, it’s about managing yourself.

Whether it’s line call drama, passive-aggressive partners, or that one player who hits every shot at your head, conflict shows up. So what do I do when things go sideways on the court? Let’s talk.

1. Never Go to the Nets (Seriously, Just Don’t)

It might feel like the adult thing to do—walking up to the net, looking someone in the eye, and “talking it out.” Sounds mature, right?

Wrong.

Approaching the net mid-match rarely solves anything. I've watched it escalate more often than not. I've had players scream at me from across the net because they took two timeouts and we served anyway. We knew the rules. We followed them. But that didn’t stop the accusations.

I had my partner call the score loudly. We played with energy. We didn’t break the rules—we simply didn’t give in to the pressure. And for some players, that’s enough to trigger a meltdown.

 I don’t get lured into that space where emotion takes over and reason disappears. If I have something to say, I say it from the baseline—firm, brief, and clear. Then I move on. Sometimes they don't. I've never lost a call from the baseline. 

Let them yell. Let them blame. I’ll respond with composure and consistency. That’s where the real power is.

2. Losing It (and Resetting Mentally)

Some days, I do lose it. Not in a dramatic paddle-throwing way, but mentally. I spiral. I get irritated. I overthink. My timing slips. My shoulders get tight. I make bad calls. 

Maybe it was a bad partner vibe, maybe it was a cheap shot, maybe it was me. Either way, when I feel that spin start to happen, I reset.

• I slow down between points.
• I take a literal breath.
• I focus on one clear shot I want to make.

I don’t chase the conflict. I chase control.

One of the best pieces of advice I ever got? “Play like the score is 0–0 every point.” That mindset brings me back to neutral emotionally and strategically.

See you out there just not at the net.