What is an Erne In Pickleball? Master The Erne Shot in Pickleball

In Pickleball, what is an Erne Shot? Before explaining it, let’s discuss what pickleball is. Pickleball is fast becoming one of the most popular racket sports in the world. What started as a backyard pastime has transformed into a competitive sport with nuanced techniques and strategic play. The Erne shot has captured the imagination of pros and amateurs alike as one such exciting maneuver.

What Exactly is the Erne Shot in Pickleball?

The Erne shot in pickleball involves a player jumping outside the court boundaries, hitting the ball mid-air without letting their feet touch the ground, and landing outside the non-volley zone (NVZ), also known as the kitchen. It is an aggressive and daring shot that requires perfect timing and technique to execute correctly.

This stealthy shot is played from the out-of-bounds area on either side of the court near the net. The key is that the player must establish both feet outside the sidelines before striking the ball in the air. It can be an unreturnable shot that gives you a definite edge in the rally.

Origins of the Erne 

The Erne shot is named after the pro player Erne Perry, who popularized its use in high-level competitive pickleball. Although Erne Perry did not invent the maneuver, his proficiency in using it during the 2010 USAPA National Pickleball Tournament brought it into the limelight. His exceptional skill at executing the surprise volley led to it being christened the ‘Erne’ shot.

Since then, it has become one of the most relaxed pickleball shots professionals use to catch their opponents off guard and win critical points in a match.

Why the Erne in Pickleball is a Game Changer

At first glance, the Erne appears to be a flashy, all-or-nothing shot. But in the hands of a composed and strategic player, it can be a potential game-changing weapon. Here’s why mastering the Erne can give you an edge:

Surprise Factor: The unexpected nature of the Erne catches most opponents unawares, making it difficult for them to react in time. This surprise element makes it an unreturnable shot.

Point Winner: Due to its aggressive nature and proximity to the net, the Erne often ends up being an outright winner. It can help you pull off a quick point.

Forced Errors: Even if opponents anticipate the Erne, they are forced into making hasty returns. Their rushed shots under pressure usually result in errors. 

Versatility: The Erne can be used offensively and defensively. You can go for a direct put-away shot or an angled passing volley.

Throws the Opponent off: After getting hit by an Erne, opponents hesitate before approaching the net, allowing you to dominate the non-volley zone.

As you can see, adding Erne to your shot selection forces opponents to be alert and adapt their game. This unpredictability is what makes high-level pickleball so exciting!

Difference between Bert and Erne in Pickleball

The Erne is often confused with the Bert shot in pickleball. While both are advanced surprise volleys, there is a crucial difference:

Erne: Shot played from the player’s side of the court

Bert: Shot played from the partner’s side of the court (a poached shot)

So while the Erne is executed from outside your court sidelines, the Bert involves moving all the way over to your partner’s side of the court before taking the shot.

The Bert adds another layer of complexity, with both players required to coordinate closely. But the Erne itself provides plenty of challenges to hone your skills.

 Set Up an Erne Shot in Pickleball

Successfully pulling off the Erne requires foresight, skill, and perfect timing. Here are some pointers on how to set up and hit this sensational shot:Lure Opponent to the Sidelines

Attempt to draw the Opponent wide to the edges of the court by hitting a series of soft dinks to their left or right sideline. This will force them to return with a straight-ahead shot down the line.Anticipate the Return

Once you have pulled your Opponent wide, anticipate their return. Start moving towards the out-of-bounds area just as they make contact with their shot. Mind the Footwork 

Plant both feet outside the sideline before jumping up. Hit the ball in the air inside your side of the court and land outside again. Never let your feet touch the ground inside the court boundaries. Watch Your Timing

Timing is everything for Erne. Move too early, and you will be out of position. Too late, and you will be forced to hit the ball from inside the court. Practice to get your footwork and rhythm right.Choose Your Moment

Be patient and wait for the right ball. Ideal scenarios are lobs or high balls near the sidelines over the pickleball court that sit up and allow you to get in the perfect position.

With the proper preparation and timing, you’ll soon be hitting Erne winners! Remember erne must be your surprise shot.

How to hit an erne

The erne is a unique pickleball shot named after the bird. To perform an erne, let the ball dink once on your side after your opponent hits it over. Move up to the non-volley zone line as the ball dinks toward you. Then, as the ball pops up from the second dink, swing your paddle low and scoop the ball up into the air.

Aim to lift the ball high over the net in an arching loop. Mastering the erne takes practice to get the timing and paddle angle right when dinking that second bounce. Use this fun erne shot to catch your opponent off guard after some routine dinking. The erne is an unorthodox pickleball technique but can be an effective surprise attack if executed properly on the dink. It takes coordination to hit the ball on that second dink bounce, so be patient as you work on your erne dinking skills.

Is Erne Legal in Pickeball

For the Erne shot to be considered legal in pickleball, players must adhere to the following rules:

• Establish both feet outside the court boundaries before hitting the ball.
• Please contact the ball on your side of the court before it bounces.
• Do not touch the net or net post at any point.
• Land outside the court boundaries after making the shot

As long as these conditions are met, the Erne is deemed a legal and valid shot in pickleball. Know the rules to avoid any disputes about this sensational shot.

Defend against an Erne

Facing an opponent who has mastered the Erne can be daunting. Here are some tips on defending yourself against this advanced shot:

Watch for the setup: Pay attention if your Opponent tries to pull you wide to the sidelines. This might indicate an Erne attempt.

Don’t get faked out: Be ready to react quickly and get back to the center if you see them start to move outside the court.

Hit down the line: A straight shot down your sideline gives them less angle for the Erne.

Go for a lob: High-looping shots take more work to turn into Erne winners.

Crowd the net: Move closer to the NVZ to volley off their Erne attempts.

With practice, you can learn to neutralize opponents trying fancy Erne shots on you.

Impact of the Erne shot in Pickleball 

The Erne shot has enhanced the excitement and competitiveness of pickleball matches in single and double, especially at high skill levels. Some impacts it has had on the sport:

• Added an element of surprise and unpredictability during rallies.
• Provides players with a new offensive weapon.
• Forces players to be more alert and improve their reflexes.
• Rewards athleticism, timing, and skill.
• Distinguishes top-level players who can execute it well.
• The expanded shot selection available to competitors.
• Made games more thrilling to watch.

The adoption of the Erne has enriched the sport of pickleball and continues to push boundaries. More innovation undoubtedly lies ahead as the game evolves.

Mastering the Erne Requires Patience: Called an Erne

Perfecting the Erne takes time and dedicated practice, like any signature shot in racquet sports. But the payoff is rewarding. Here are some final tips as you undertake your journey:

• Build solid Pickleball fundamentals first before attempting the Erne. Get your groundstrokes, volleys, overhead shots, and footwork honed.
• Start practicing the Erne without the ball to get your footwork and sense of timing right.
• Begin with easy lobs and waist-height balls to build confidence. Don’t go for too much flair initially.
• Be mentally prepared to fail many times before nailing the Erne. Persist and see each attempt as a learning experience.
• Know when to unleash the Erne in a match; use it as a surprise weapon at key moments and called an erne.

The Erne can give you that competitive edge over opponents with proper preparation and match strategy. So grab your paddle and get ready to soar!

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 Conclusion: Mastering the Erne Shot in Pickleball

The Erne maneuver in pickleball perfectly encapsulates the drive to innovate and push boundaries at the heart of every sport. While it is a difficult shot, it signals your willingness to embrace complexity and commit to excellence. More than a flashy move, the Erne demonstrates the power of practice, patience, and persistence.

This guide covers everything you need, from the origins of the Erne to its proper execution, legalities, and defensive tactics. Take the time to build your overall pickleball skills before introducing Erne to competitive play. With the appropriate guidance and hours of practice, you, too, can thrill audiences and outwit opponents with this ultimate power shot close to the net.

So step outside your comfort zone, be willing to fail, and you will soon find yourself leaping to pickleball greatness with the Erne!

FAQs: Hit a Successful Erne

What does Erne in pickleball stand for?

In pickleball, “Erne” refers to a specific type of shot that is executed near the non-volley zone. It is a more advanced and aggressive shot that requires quick reflexes and precision. 

What is a Bert and Ernie in pickleball?

So, In the game of pickleball, Bert and Ernie refer to a really cool shot where one player hits a lob, and the other player smashes it down with a powerful overhead. It’s like a tag team move that’ll leave your opponents in awe! 

How do you defend the ernie in pickleball?

To defend against the Ernie shot in pickleball, you need to anticipate your opponent’s intention to move to the non-volley zone. Position yourself closer to the centerline, keeping an eye on their movements. Be ready to react quickly and move to cover the open court, preventing them from executing the shot successfully.

Where did the name Ernie come from in pickleball?

The origin of the name “Ernie” in pickleball is unclear, but some believe it was derived from the sound a paddle makes when it strikes the ball. It could also have been named after a popular children’s character, Ernie, from the TV show “Sesame Street”. Whatever its source, the name has become synonymous with pickleball and is recognized by players around the world.

Can you step into the kitchen before Ernie?

Stepping into the kitchen before an Ernie is possible, but it’s important to make sure all the ingredients are ready and that you have a plan for how to prepare the dish. Taking some time to think through the steps before diving in can help ensure your meal is a success!