What is An Erne in Pickleball? How to Setup?
Erne shots, also known as “Ernie shots in pickleball,” Means quickly moving close to the net on either the left or right side and hitting the ball out of the air.
The Erne shot in pickleball is a unique and exciting technique players use to gain an advantage over their opponents. It’s a clever move that can surprise your opponent and give you a chance to seize a scoring opportunity.
Is the Erne Shot Legal?
An Erne shot becomes Erne legal when specific pickleball rules and court guidelines are followed.
| Condition | Rule | Details |
| Kitchen Rule | Do not step into the kitchen while hitting the ball. | Feet must stay outside the kitchen when setting up for the shot. |
| Net Rule | Do not reach over the net unless the ball is on your side. | Stay on your side of the ball to ensure any reach is legal. |
Setup And Execution Of The Erne Shot In Pickleball
The Erne shot is an advanced move in pickleball – a surprise shot that can change the game in your favor. Let’s break down how to set up and execute this exciting shot for maximum impact on the court.
Setting Up the Erne
You can set up a successful erne shot by following these steps
Setting up an erne attempt requires precise positioning and anticipation to ensure a successful execution.
Positioning is Key
Quickly position yourself near the net on either the left or right side as the ball sails high over the net. It is crucial to have a good position when playing pickleball to be successful.
Positioning is also key for executing other advanced shots like the Bert shot, which requires coordination and timing.
Stay Within Non-Volley Zone Boundaries
Remember the non volley zone line, which is known as the “kitchen” area near the net? During the Erne shot, make sure your feet don’t touch it.
Ensure your feet do not touch the NVZ line during the shot.
Keep your eyes open for the ball.
Read your opponent’s move and predict where the ball is headed. This will give you a split-second advantage to get into the correct position.
Anticipate cross-court shots to create opportunities to execute the Erne.
Executing the Erne Shot
As you stand ready to execute this move, keep these essential tips in mind to make your Erne shot a winning move. When executed correctly, the Erne shot can be nearly impossible to defend against.
Learning how to hit an erne effectively can give you a significant advantage on the court.
Timing is Everything
Your timing is crucial for the Erne shot. Wait for the ball to reach the perfect height – a moment when it’s neither too high nor too low for a perfect strike.
Quick Strike
With a rapid and controlled swing of your racket, connect it with the ball while it hangs in the air. Your aim is to strike it cleanly before it makes contact with the ground.
Quick Recovery
After executing the Erne shot, your work continues. Quickly transition back to your initial position on the court. Flexible footwork ensures you’re prepared for whatever comes next.
Practice Makes a Successful Erne
The Erne shot is refined through practice. Start slowly and gradually increase the pace of hitting an erne shot as you gain confidence. You will become more proficient and your technique will become more polished as you practice.
Benefits of an Advanced Erne Shot
There are many benefits to using an erne rather than just impressing your opponents. Let’s now discuss the advantages of an erne shot in pickleball.
Due to its effectiveness, the Erne shot has become a staple in mainstream competitive play.
1. Surprise Element
One of the primary advantages of the Erne shot is its surprise factor. Opponents might not expect you to run close to the net and strike the ball mid-air. This surprise can catch them, making it challenging for them to respond effectively.
2. Controlled Offense
The Erne shot allows you to take control of the game’s rhythm. By executing a well-timed Erne shot you dictate the pace of the rally. This controlled offense can upset your opponent’s strategy and force them to adapt to your gameplay.
3. Mental Pressure
Successfully using the Erne shot puts physical pressure on your opponent and adds a layer of mental pressure. The unexpected nature of the shot can lead to mistakes on their end and give you an edge over them.
4. Point Advantage
A well-executed Erne shot can lead to gaining an early advantage in the point. If your opponent struggles to return the shot effectively, you might be in a prime position to secure the point.
Disadvantages of Using an Erne
Aside from its benefits, the Erne shot also has some disadvantages. Executing the Erne shot often involves playing, which requires precise timing. A short shot into the kitchen can be an effective defensive strategy against Erne.
Risks Associated with Attempting an Erne
Attempting an Erne shot comes with several risks. One of the primary concerns is the difficulty of maintaining proper foot placement, as stepping into the kitchen or over the line can lead to a fault.
Additionally, the precision required to execute the shot successfully means that even slight miscalculations in timing or positioning can result in errors. These risks necessitate a high level of skill and practice to mitigate. The Erne is considered an advanced shot due to the precision and skill required.
Potential Consequences of a Failed Erne
If an Erne shot fails, the consequences can be significant. A common outcome is leaving a large portion of the court exposed, providing opponents with an easy opportunity to score.
Furthermore, a failed attempt can disrupt your team’s rhythm and coordination, leading to a loss of momentum.
Players considering whether to use the Erne shot should be aware of these potential drawbacks. The Erne shot, popularized by Erne Perry, can be risky if not executed properly.
How Do You Defend Against An Erne?
Facing an Erne shot on the pickleball court can be a challenging experience, but with the right tactics, you can turn the defence effectively. To counter the Erne shot, follow these steps:
1. Predict the Move
As a defender, you need to be prepared for an Erne shot. Be prepared for your opponent’s quick movement toward the net.
2. Quick Reaction
The Erne shot happens quickly, so your reaction time is crucial. Keep your eyes on the ball and your opponent’s racket to react quickly when they make their move.
3. Diverse Placement
Mix up your shot placement as a defender to keep your opponent guessing. Hitting the ball to different areas of the court can upset their strategy and make it harder for them to execute the Erne shot.
4. Communication with Partner
In doubles play, communication with your partner is crucial. Alert each other to your opponent’s movements and work together to cover the court effectively.
crucial. Alert each other to your opponent’s movements and work together to cover the court effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related questions people ask about Erne.
How Do You Hit An Ernie In Pickleball?
To hit an Ernie, swiftly move near the net on either side as the ball is high, then strike it mid-air before it bounces.
Why Do They Call It An Erne?
It’s named after the player Erne Perry, known for this move’s innovation and success.
What Is An Ernie Move In Pickleball?
An Ernie is a surprise shot where you move close to the net to strike the ball in mid-air, catching opponents off guard.
To explore more pickleball techniques, strategies, and equipment options, check out PickleballCentral.com.
Final Thoughts – What is an Erne in Pickleball?
In pickleball, the Erne shot stands as a unique and powerful technique. With dedication and practice, you can transform this initially challenging move into a game-changing advantage.
From understanding its setup and execution to countering it effectively, this article has exposed the secrets of What is An Erne in Pickleball.
Thanks for reading along, have a nice day.
