Advice from Atlanta Select Pickleball Coaches
Fundamentals First: Kyle Burcher’s Guide to Pickleball Success
In 2021, Kyle Burcher decided to explore new hobbies and tried out an intro to pickleball class. He has been hooked ever since.
Burcher began playing pickleball at Hammond Park in Sandy Springs and quickly advanced in the sport. He is now a Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) Certified Professional with a 5.0+ DUPR Singles and Doubles Rating.
Burcher currently serves as a teaching pro at Lifetime Pickleball and is a Sigma Pickleball Athlete. He is passionate about promoting pickleball to all ages and skill levels.
His pickleball philosophy focuses on developing strong fundamental skills while adapting to each player’s unique strengths and weaknesses. He believes in the educate, demonstrate, and imitate method of coaching. Education focuses on the why, when, and how of a shot, demonstration shows the precise technique, and imitation allows players to perfect the shot through practice.
Like other coaches, Burcher said a common mistake beginners make is trying to drive and hit the ball too hard, resulting in inconsistent shots. He advises beginners to focus on controlling the ball’s pace and accuracy rather than hitting it as hard as possible.
For equipment, Burcher recommends mid-weight paddles (around 8.0 oz) with a width of 14mm to 16mm for beginners, while intermediate and advanced players might prefer thermoformed paddles with different shapes and surfaces.
Handle length is also crucial, with players who use two-handed backhands likely needing a handle longer than 5.5 inches.
For those looking to customize their paddle further, Burcher said to try using over grips and consider the application of lead or tungsten tape to adjust the paddle’s swing characteristics.
His favorite piece of advice is simple yet profound: “If you want to play, then play. If you want to get better, then drill.”
You can follow Burcher’s pickleball journey at @kyle.burcher.pickleball
