October 06, 2023

35: ALL About the ERNE! How to Erne in Pickleball

30 minutes

An "ERNE" in pickleball is a specialized and advanced shot technique that involves reaching over the sideline to hit the ball before it crosses the net. The term "ERNE" is a portmanteau of "Ernie" and "Ernest," and it is named after Ernesto "Ernie" Scherer, a prominent pickleball player who popularized this maneuver.

Here's how an ERNE works:

When your opponent hits the ball diagonally toward your side of the court, and the ball is close to or just above the net, you have the opportunity to execute an ERNE.

Instead of waiting for the ball to cross the net and then hitting it, you move quickly to the non-volley zone (often referred to as the "kitchen") and reach over the sideline, hitting the ball before it goes over the net.

The objective of the ERNE is to hit the ball at an angle that surprises your opponent and makes it difficult for them to return. It can be an effective way to score a point or put pressure on your opponents.

The ERNE is considered an advanced pickleball shot because it requires excellent hand-eye coordination, precise timing, and the ability to judge the trajectory of the ball accurately. It can catch your opponents off guard, but it also carries some risk, as reaching over the sideline can lead to errors if not executed correctly.

Players who are skilled at the ERNE can use it as a valuable weapon in their pickleball arsenal, adding an element of surprise and strategy to their gameplay. However, mastering the ERNE takes practice and should be attempted by players with a solid understanding of the game's rules and techniques.

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By Michael O'Neal & Mircea Morariu

4.8