Dave Learns How To Erne On Smash It Street — Easy as 1-2-3!
Dave, a 33 year old pickleball player with a paddle and big dreams, decided to visit Smash It Street to learn from the Pickle Puppets. They’re here to teach him how to nail the Erne in three easy-peasy steps. So grab your paddle, giggle like a kid, and let’s get Erne-credible!
The Erne is a pickleball move that makes your opponents go, “Whaaaat?!” Named after pickleball legend Erne Perry, it’s when you zip to the side of the court, jump over the corner of the Kitchen (that’s the non-volley zone near the net), and smack a volley mid-air before landing outside the court. It’s like doing a superhero hop while high-fiving the ball! The Kitchen’s a no-go zone for volleys, so the Erne lets you sneakily hit from the side without breaking the rules. It’s tricky but totally rad, and with the Pickle Puppets’ help, you’ll be an Erne champ in no time!
Why Learn the Erne?
The Erne isn’t just for show (though it’s super cool). It’s a game-changer that lets you hit crazy angles, surprise your opponents, and feel like a pickleball wizard. Plus, it’s fun to say: “ERNE!” Whether you’re playing at the park or a tournament, pulling off an Erne makes you the star of Smash It Street. Ready to learn? Let’s break it down into three steps, puppet-style!
How to Do an Erne in 3 Super Simple Steps
Step 1: Spot the Chance and Scoot!
The Erne starts with sharp eyes and quick feet. You gotta watch the ball like it’s a flying cookie and predict when your opponent’s gonna hit a high shot near the net. That’s your Erne moment! Stand near the sideline, close to the Kitchen line, and shuffle sideways like you’re dodging a water balloon. Stay light on your toes and keep outside the Kitchen — stepping in is a big ol’ no-no!
Actionable Tip: Practice lateral shuffles at home. Mark a line on the floor (your “sideline”) and shuffle side-to-side 10 times, staying quick and balanced. Watch pickleball videos online to spot when pros set up for an Erne. The better you get at reading the game, the easier you’ll find your Erne chance!
Step 2: Leap Like a Superhero!
Now it’s time to get airborne! When you’re at the sideline and the ball’s floating high, take a big leap over the corner of the Kitchen. Don’t step in the Kitchen — that’s a rule-breaker! Jump just enough to clear the corner, so you’re in the air, ready to smack the ball. Your feet should land outside the court, like you’re hopping over a tiny fence. It’s not a moon-jump, just a pickleball-power hop!
Actionable Tip: Use tape to mark a corner on the floor (like the Kitchen’s edge). Practice jumping over it from a sideline stance, landing outside, 10 times. Hold your paddle up as if you’re about to volley, to get the feel. Keep it smooth and safe — no need to go full gymnast!
Step 3: Smack It and Stick the Landing!
Here’s the fun part: hitting the ball and looking like a boss! While you’re in the air, swing your paddle to whack the ball — aim down or cross-court to make your opponent scramble. Keep your eye on the ball and swing smooth, like you’re high-fiving a buddy. Then, land like a ninja, outside the court, with a big grin. If you miss, no worries — you’ll just look like you’re dancing with an invisible pal!
Actionable Tip: Practice the full Erne in slow motion. Stand by the sideline, jump over the Kitchen corner, swing your paddle at an imaginary ball, and land outside. Do 10 reps, focusing on a clean swing and solid landing. When you’re ready, have a friend toss you high balls to practice the real deal.
Tips from Smash It Street
The Pickle Puppets have some extra wisdom to make you Erne-tastic:
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Practice makes perfect! The Erne takes time, so keep at it, even if you flop at first.
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Stay safe! Only leap if you’re comfy — start with small hops and build up.
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Have a blast! The Erne’s about flair, so giggle when you mess up and cheer when you nail it.
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Save it for surprises! Don’t Erne every point — use it like a secret weapon to keep opponents guessing.
Dave’s Erne Adventure
At Smash It Street, Dave practiced with the Pickle Puppets, shuffling, jumping, and swinging under their goofy guidance. After a few tries (and some funny flails), he nailed his first Erne, smacking a ball tossed by Sassy Spin and landing like a pro. The rainbow court cheered (okay, maybe that was just Coach Crunch shouting), and the giant pickle statue winked. Dave left Smash It Street ready to Erne his way to pickleball glory, and you can too!
Why the Erne Rules
The Erne is more than a move — it’s a vibe! It brings sparkle to your game, wows the crowd, and makes you feel like you’re flying. Whether you’re a newbie or a pickleball pro, the Erne adds a splash of fun to every match. So channel your inner kid, practice those steps, and hit the court with Smash It Street swagger.
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