Sharpening Communication with Pickleball: The “Call It Out” Drill

Let’s be real—communication is everything when it comes to successful teamwork. Whether you’re on the pickleball court or in the office, good communication can make or break your game (or your project). One of the great things about pickleball is that it naturally forces players to communicate quickly and clearly, which is exactly what you want in the workplace, too.

In this blog, we’re going to focus on how you can sharpen those communication skills using a super simple pickleball drill: The “Call It Out” Drill. This drill will not only help you improve your game but also boost your ability to communicate effectively with your team back at the office.

Why Communication Matters (On and Off the Court)

In doubles pickleball, you and your partner are constantly moving, adjusting, and reacting to your opponents. Without solid communication, you’ll end up stepping on each other’s toes—literally and figuratively. You need to know who’s taking the shot, who’s covering the court, and when it’s time to adjust your strategy. That quick, clear communication is what keeps things running smoothly, just like in any well-functioning workplace.

When you bring that same level of communication to your team at work, you avoid misunderstandings, handle challenges more effectively, and work together to achieve goals. It’s all about being on the same page.

The Drill: “Call It Out”

So, let’s get into the drill. Here’s how it works:

1. Grab a Partner: You’ll need a partner for this one—just like in doubles pickleball.

2. Start Rallying: Start hitting the ball back and forth, keeping it simple to start.

3. Call It Out: Before you hit each shot, call out whether you’re going to use your forehand or backhand. Loud enough so your partner knows exactly what’s coming.

At first, it might feel a little awkward, but that’s the point! The goal is to get into the habit of communicating with your partner, even if it seems unnecessary at times. You’re building muscle memory for communication, which will pay off when things get more intense.

How This Applies to the Workplace

Now, let’s talk about why this matters in the office. Just like in pickleball, clear communication at work is all about making sure everyone knows what’s happening and what’s coming next. Whether you’re leading a project or working as part of a team, calling out your next move keeps everyone aligned and reduces the chance of misunderstandings.

Think about it—how many times has a project gone sideways because someone didn’t communicate their next step? This drill gets you in the habit of over-communicating in a way that builds trust and keeps things running smoothly, even under pressure.

Putting It into Action

Once you’ve practiced this drill a few times on the court, try applying the same principle at work. Make it a point to clearly communicate your intentions and next steps with your team, especially in high-stakes situations. You’ll be surprised at how much smoother things run when everyone knows what to expect.

By practicing the “Call It Out” drill, you’re not just improving your pickleball game—you’re setting yourself up to be a better communicator, both on the court and at work. So, next time you’re rallying, don’t forget to call it out. Your partner (and your coworkers) will thank you!

Dr. K.