In a lively discussion on a popular subreddit, a pickleball player expressed their discontent with the increasingly frustrating dynamics of open play. User ‘justlooking3339’ painted a vivid picture of their latest experience, describing a scenario where they felt targeted in an unwelcoming and poorly matched game. According to them, open play is becoming less enjoyable because some players are focusing on dominating the game rather than improving their skills or helping others learn. The sentiment echoed a growing concern among the community about the lack of sportsmanship that seems to prevail during these sessions.
Summary
- Open play is becoming increasingly stressful for players, particularly due to aggressive tactics employed against less experienced players.
- The author of the post encountered a particularly rude player who seemed more interested in targeting a beginner than fostering a collaborative environment.
- Comments from the community revealed a shared frustration with the behaviors exhibited in open play settings.
- Many players advocate for forming private groups to ensure balanced games and a more enjoyable experience.
The Emotional Toll of Poor Sportsmanship
The feelings of frustration and disappointment expressed by ‘justlooking3339’ are shared by many in the pickleball community. Open play should ideally be a place where players of various skill levels can come together to enjoy the sport and progress—however, that ideal often falls short. As the post emphasized, being targeted in a game can spoil the fun and discourage less experienced players from returning. For many, pickleball is not just about competition; it has become a social activity that fosters relationships and connections. When one player resorts to a ‘win at all costs’ mentality, it detracts from the spirit of camaraderie that is meant to define the game.
Community Reactions: A Mixed Bag
<pThe outpouring of comments on the original post illustrates a dichotomy within the pickleball community: while some people recognized the poor behaviors described, others suggested constructive ways to overcome these hurdles. For instance, user 'garyt1957' characterized players who target beginners as “total losers,” highlighting the universal disdain for such tactics. Conversely, user 'Swalapala' simply suggested setting up private games to avoid the unpleasantness of poor experiences during open play. Clearly, players are grappling with the balance of maintaining competitiveness while also nurturing a welcoming environment.
Forming Your Own Group: The Key to Enjoyment
<pMany respondents advocated for the benefits of forming personalized groups outside of open play sessions. User '3DotsOn2Geckos' asserted that players need to wait until they reach a certain skill level before taking part in open sessions. Meanwhile, 'MiCoHEART' echoed this sentiment, providing insight that moving to private group games can diminish the likelihood of encountering aggressive style players. Having a dedicated group provides a sense of belonging and mutual respect, which seems to be a crucial element in keeping enthusiasm for the sport alive, especially for those looking to improve rather than simply compete.
Paddle Preference: The Quality Over Quantity Argument
<pOne interesting angle of the discussion revolved around the equipment used in the game. Users wisely noted that the type of paddle being used can sometimes mislead others regarding a player’s skill level. As 'ErneNelson' pointed out, even less experienced players might wield expensive paddles but struggle to control their shots. Hence, the skill perceived through equipment doesn’t always align with actual performance, which can inadvertently exacerbate the challenges faced during open play. Recognizing this fact could assist players in approaching the game with a heightened sense of awareness and a more forgiving perspective.
While the pickleball world might seem divided on the approach to open play, it’s evident that most players share the desire to foster an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved. As the community grapples with these challenges—both in terms of navigating difficult players and finding appropriate matches—it’s clear that dialogue and support among players are essential. Balancing competitiveness with kindness may ultimately hold the key to enjoying pickleball in an open play setting. From shared laughter over absurd moments to camaraderie over learning together, the potential for fun and friendship can triumph over the unfortunate realities of targeting new players. The combination of commitment to play and an effort to uplift others may herald the future of open play in pickleball, ensuring that no one feels sidelined in their quest for enjoyment and improvement.