In the world of pickleball, the topic of targeting during open play has sparked a lively debate among players. In a post on a popular pickleball subreddit, user “sharkfest473” posed a question that resonated with many: Can targeting—specifically the act of focusing on a weaker opponent—take the fun out of recreational play? The sentiment echoes throughout the comments, as players recount personal frustrations and experiences, leading to a deeper conversation about the essence of open play. While competition can be fierce, many agree that the primary goal in these settings should be improvement and enjoyment rather than a win-at-all-costs mentality.
Summary
- The community is divided on the concept of targeting in open play; some see it as detrimental to enjoyment, while others view it as part of the game.
- Players express that targeting isn’t always malicious; sometimes it’s a result of court positioning rather than player ability.
- Many agree that improving skills should take precedence over simply winning, suggesting that targeting can be a learning opportunity.
- While some believe that targeting is unkind in open play, others feel it can lead to productive play experiences.
The Negative Side of Targeting
Many players resonate with the feelings expressed by “sharkfest473”, who emphasizes how targeted play can drain the fun out of recreational matches. This frustration is echoed across multiple comments, where individuals articulate a common sentiment: the game should be enjoyable for everyone involved. “Evening_Airline_6690” sums it up well, stating, “It’s bullshit and people that play with this strategy suck. I’d rather win knowing I won on skill rather than targeting a really bad player.” This highlights a fundamental desire in casual play—players want to feel like they can contribute, not just be part of a lopsided encounter.
Similarly, comments from players like “Dr-McLuvin” express discomfort with the practice of targeting, particularly in imbalanced games. They advocate for a more balanced approach that allows for interaction with all players. This feedback leads to a larger discussion about how targeting can not only frustrate the player being targeted but also that person’s teammate, who feels sidelined during matches. As one user puts it, standing by while their partner is on the receiving end of targeting can feel like watching the game unfold without true participation.
Intention vs. Strategy
One interesting aspect of this conversation centers on whether targeting is genuinely malicious or simply a byproduct of strategy and court dynamics. “Qoly” contributes to this dialogue by suggesting that sometimes what appears to be targeting might just be smart play. They comment, “Sometimes they see a vulnerable part of the court and hit it there. It seems like they are targeting the weaker player, but that is just because that player is out of position every time and leaving glaring spots to exploit.” This reasoning underscores an important nuance in the discussion: players often don’t aim for an individual’s weaknesses but rather the weak points in a court setup.
This idea is further supported by “HanTanSanTan,” who argues that if they’re being targeted, they find value in it: “I actually like that because I get to play more and improve.” Herein lies a potential solution to the perceived negativity of targeting; for some, it can serve as a form of constructive challenge, helping both weaker and stronger players learn and adapt. Players like “devo14218” have taken this further by consciously choosing to target the stronger opponent, which they say promotes better practice and a more enjoyable experience.
Encouraging Open Play Etiquette
A core takeaway from the subreddit discussion is the need for players to be considerate of their partners and opponents during open play. While targeting strategies can often be critiqued, many community members emphasize that playing with empathy can lead to more enjoyable match experiences. As “fryseyes” notes, if one’s partner is getting targeted, it’s an opportunity for the non-targeted partner to practice their own skills and make contributions to the game. They suggest: “Encouragement can help with that frustration that comes with getting targeted.” This reflects the belief that everyone plays to improve, and all experiences—targeted or not—can contribute to that growth.
Moreover, players are encouraged to strategize their open play approach. Techniques such as stacking or honing certain shots can combat targeting while promoting fun and engagement among all players. This mention of strategy encourages a sense of camaraderie over competition, reinforcing that open play is primarily about enjoying the sport, improving skills, and interacting positively with others.
The Bottom Line in Open Play
Ultimately, the debate over targeting in open play continues to prompt significant discussion within the pickleball community. While many players acknowledge the frustrations that arise from targeting, a consensus appears to be forming around the idea that open play should primarily be a space for fun and skill development. As new players enter the sport and veteran players continue to refine their games, navigating the fine line between strategy and respect is crucial.
By engaging in open dialogue about the implications of targeting, players can foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable challenging themselves without diminishing the experience for others. Whether individuals choose to play to win or play to enjoy, it is vital that the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect prevails on and off the court.