Episodes
Today we discuss various aspects of coaching, including the importance of setting goals, understanding coaching styles, and evaluating a coach's compatibility with your learning style. We offer practical advice on how to identify a coach who can cater to your specific needs, whether through one-on-one sessions, remote coaching, or group settings. Insights on being coachable, gauging a coach's experience, and leveraging technology for coaching are also shared, alongside personal anecdotes and...
Published 03/17/24
Today we've got a bit of a "nuanced" show, that definitely leans a bit more towards the latter area of 4.0...think "4.75 and above", but it's something that you should definitely target and practice to get the correct shape on the ball that we're looking for!  Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 03/08/24
On today's show, Michael shares his NPL Combine experience.  Time will tell if he gets drafted or not!  Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 03/05/24
In this episode of the 4.0 to Pro pickleball podcast, hosts Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman answer listener questions from their respective locations in Boca Raton and Naples, Florida. The discussion revolved mainly around strategies for winning in pickleball including mastering the right side, adopting a two-handed backhand, and effective tactics for dealing with lobs. Tips were also given on moving and positioning on court, as well as defensive strategies. They also briefly mentioned...
Published 03/02/24
Today we talk about the Around the Post (ATP) shot in pickleball. We provide tips on how to execute the shot, defend against it and when to use it. We discuss the importance of patience in executing the shot, positioning of partners and target areas for the shot.  also, we talk about practicing the ATP shot, comparison of one handed and two handed backhands, and ATP in situations like the fourth shot scenario. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:27 Sponsor Shoutouts and Player Highlights 01:44...
Published 02/23/24
In this episode, hosts Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman celebrate one year of the pod, They share insights from their recent experiences participating in the senior pro tour. Michael discusses his performance and the importance of refining mental acuity for the game, as well as the importance of finding the right doubles partner. Scott, on the other hand, talks about the value of in-game adjustments, balancing power and soft game strategies, and the crucial role of service in his singles...
Published 02/17/24
In this episode of '4.0 to Pro', we share strategies on handling a slice return serve.  They help you navigate through options A and B which involve a deep impactful serve or a traditional third shot drop. The hosts also present an alternative 'option C' for when these strategies prove difficult, which is to play a conservative medium-paced line drive prompting the opponent to volley with more difficulty. An 'option D' is also proposed which involves utilizing serve location strategies to...
Published 02/10/24
"Intentionality" - Hitting every shot on the pickleball court with a target and with an intention.   This is one of the "super hidden secrets" of the pros...they don't hit a ball that isn't specific and targeted.  This episode will MASSIVELY simplify the game for you.   Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 02/03/24
Today we introduce the Hydra Defense™, an original strategy for guarding against cross-court speed ups. We analyze different defensive methods for pickleball players on the left and right side of the court, adopting a forehand or backhand 'shield' depending on their position and the context of the game. We also provide insights about paddle positioning, stance and visualization techniques during the game. Let's "beta test" this together...we'd love to hear your feedback. 00:00 Introduction...
Published 01/26/24
In this episode of the 4.0 to Pro Your Pocket Size Pickleball Podcast, co-hosts Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman discuss key aspects of pickleball resets – an integral and often overlooked part of pickleball strategy. They talk about the nature of pickleball resets, their importance in the game, and identify it as a unique feature to pickleball amongst other racquet sports. They further define resets and explain the circumstances under which they should be used. Through the episode, they...
Published 01/19/24
In this episode of '4.0 to Pro', hosts Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman answer listener-submitted questions about pickleball strategies. They discuss the importance of drilling, communication between partners, maintaining good footwork and serve strategy. They also talk about adjusting to new tournament formats like the Minor League Pickleball (MLP) rally scoring. Interviewing about situational tactics, they provide advice for combating certain serve styles, dealing with the sun in outdoor...
Published 01/14/24
In this episode of the 4.0 to Pro Pickleball Podcast, hosts Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman discuss a specific point played in a pickleball game featuring players Milan Rane, Parris Todd, Jorja Johnson, and Tyra Black. They break down each shot in the point, sharing their thoughts on the strategy and execution of each player. They analyze moments where the players could have ended the rally and gave insight into effective techniques and tactics used during the game. They also examine...
Published 01/06/24
In the episode, hosts Michael O'Neal and Scott Fliegelman discuss strategies on how to handle a bad day on the pickleball court. They highlight the need to assess why the bad day is happening which could be due to physical fatigue, better opponents, equipment condition, or mental readiness. To overcome this, they recommend going back to the basics, adapting to current conditions, adjusting the game plan, and accepting what's being given. The importance of giving credit to opponents following...
Published 12/30/23
Today Scott and Michael did a drilling/coaching session, then broke down Michael's game with the areas that need improvement so Michael can try out for the NPL Combine in March.  Our goal for this show is to demonstrate how we can work with a coach, and hang our ego at the door for hopes of self-improvement. Split Step Video:  https://youtu.be/jIECkRr5qRQ?si=81wjJsyEh79bP2xb Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 12/23/23
On today's show we go step by step through a drill session that will make you a better player.  So...Merry Christmas!  1 hour 4.02P Drilling Session   Warm up (10-15 min)Straight ahead dinking Sidestep w/ level shouldersProactive out-of-the air with balanced squatting and lungingInstigator Game Slinky Drill XC Dinking (10-15 min)Apex managementbackstopTargeting spotsVolley DinksSpeed ups/ Blocking“7-11” (15- 20 min)Switch rolesAll four quadrants “5 & Dime” (10-15 min)Switch rolesOnly XC...
Published 12/16/23
Today we are breaking down a point from the MLP in San Clemente between Riley Newman, Jade Kawamoto, Lacey Schneeman, and Erik Lange! Here's the video:  https://www.facebook.com/reel/191454607379243?fs=e&s=TIeQ9V&mibextid=IX6t0L Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 12/08/23
Another fun Q&A show today.  We dig into lots of fun topics from you guys, including right side player techniques, when to speed up, mastering mindset, and more! Scott's Splitstep video:  (Make sure you like and subscribe to Boulder Pickleball on YouTube!) https://youtu.be/ZcGCsxBvmpM?si=vIbW3y5r5FTXiKBs Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 12/01/23
How have we not done a show on Mixed Dubs by episode 41???  Crazyballs.  Here it is for your consumption.  :)  Gobble Gobble!!  Happy Thanksgiving!  Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 11/21/23
The "half-volley", or short hop, is a very important shot, and a fantastic way to reduce time your opponents have to respond to a shot.  Let's learn it!  CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 11/12/23
We've all been on each side of this.  Down 9-2, and we want to win it!  How do we keep our game on track and break their hearts for the win?  Conversely, we've all been leading 10-4 and can't seem to close it out! We share how we might keep our game on point to close the thing out and not give our opponents a chance to catch up!  Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 11/05/23
The age old question...WHEN to DRIVE, and when to DROP!  On this episode we share a strategy to help you decide which to hit, and when!  CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 10/29/23
Consistency is probably the most noticeable difference between the 4 point "something" pickleball player and the 5.0+/pro level players.  But how do we get more consistent??  Today's show works it out!  CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 10/20/23
At long last, the 402p singles episode!  We cover a ton in this show, from serves, returns, strategy, training...you name it.  Enjoy!  CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 10/14/23
An "ERNE" in pickleball is a specialized and advanced shot technique that involves reaching over the sideline to hit the ball before it crosses the net. The term "ERNE" is a portmanteau of "Ernie" and "Ernest," and it is named after Ernesto "Ernie" Scherer, a prominent pickleball player who popularized this maneuver. Here's how an ERNE works: When your opponent hits the ball diagonally toward your side of the court, and the ball is close to or just above the net, you have the opportunity to...
Published 10/06/23
Ahhh, the Pickleball banger!  We've all played against them.  In this episode we show you how to defend and conquer their attacks! CRBN Pickleball Makers of the best pickleball paddles on the planet. Use Promo Code "402P" at checkout for 10% off.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/4.0_to_Pro
Published 09/22/23