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The scene is set. You have the net. Your opponent’s drop their racquet way below the ball. You know what’s coming next. You drop back and prepare the racquet high above your head. But now what to do? Where to hit? At the feet, the corner, the cage? What type of spin should I give the ball? Kick? Slice? Should I drop all the way back and let it bounce off the back glass? All valid points. And in this series of Coaches Corner, I will be going through each smash and try to make your decision making easier and make you more effective once you’ve prepared beneath the ball. 

A  well-executed smash in padel can be the difference between seizing control of the game or ceding it to your opponent. Each type of smash has its own unique characteristics, making them suitable for specific situations on the court. We'll explore the Bandeja, Vibora, Rulo, Gancho, and Kick Smash, highlighting when and how to use them effectively.

1. Bandeja: The Precision-Packed Underspin Smash

The Bandeja is defined by the speed at which you strike the ball and characterized by the finesse of underspin. It's a controlled shot that can turn the tide of a rally.

When to Use:

• Defensive Positioning: Use the Bandeja when you're pushed back toward the service line and need to regain control of the net.
• Setting Up Plays: It's perfect for setting up offensive plays or creating opportunities for your partner at the net.

2. Vibora: The Aggressive Attacking Smash

The Vibora, meaning “Snake” in Spanish, is the go-to smash for players looking to assert dominance in a rally. It's a more aggressive version of the traditional smash as you try to hit it with sidespin.

When to Use:

• Neutral or Attacking Position: Deploy the Vibora when you're in a position to attack, typically near the net or in the mid-court area.
• Capitalizing on Weak Lob: Use it when your opponent delivers a weak lob, allowing you to take control of the point.

3. Rulo: The Side-Fence Opener

The Rulo is a strategic choice, designed to exploit the side fence and open up the court for a follow-up shot.

When to Use:

• Tight Court Situations: Opt for the Rulo when you find yourself pressed against the side fence and the ball is over your outside shoulder, giving you an opportunity to redirect the play.
• Creating Angles: It's ideal for creating sharp angles that catch your opponents off guard and it exposes the court for you to attack further.

4. Gancho: The Net-Keeping Defensive Smash

The Gancho, meaning “Hook,” is a specialized defensive smash, allowing you to maintain control of the net, but at your own risk.

When to Use:

• Retaining Net Dominance: Use the Gancho when you're at the net and need to respond to a deep lob from your opponents.
• Preserving Positioning: It's an excellent choice for keeping control of the net, however it is a riskier smash as your opponent’s my counterattack.

5. Kick Smash: The Court-Breaker

The Kick Smash is the most aggressive of smashes and the showstopper. It is aimed at sending the ball out of the court, putting immense pressure on your opponents.

When to Use:

• Overwhelming Opponents: Unleash the Kick Smash when you have a clear advantage and want to put your opponents on the defensive.
• Risky Business: Use it at your own risk, if you get it wrong your opponents can easily counterattack.

This blog post is just the beginning of our smash series. Over the next few weeks, we'll be delving deeper into each type of smash, discussing specific techniques and tactics to help you perfect your game. 

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Happy smashing! And let’s see if we can add some smash tools to your toolbox!

Coach Jared