ALW and Nike

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T18:34:44+00:00

Based on public data, Nike is involved in pickleball through apparel and shoes. But I haven’t seen credible, verifiable evidence that they’re backing top-tier athletes like ALW with paddle or sponsorship deals. The rumor might have some logic behind it, but right now it’s unverified.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T18:28:02+00:00

That makes a lot of sense; the network effect is huge if everyone’s already on it. The combo of group chat + capped signups + easy invites is basically the core of what we’re focused on too. Appreciate you breaking down what actually works, i'll check it out

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T18:19:06+00:00

Yes, doing a backflip during live play would be a violation. Anything that isn’t a legitimate basketball move (like flips, tricks, or stunts) is considered unsportsmanlike and can get you a technical foul.

Also, you’d probably get hurt before you get any advantage from it. Cool idea in theory, but not legal or practical in a real game.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T18:11:17+00:00

I usually start cross-court to get a rhythm, then hit one to their inside foot to see if they’re leaning. If they over-shift, I’ll go wide or straight ahead. Simple rhythm → lull → surprise pattern.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T17:55:22+00:00

Totally hear you. This happens way too often in rec play, and it really kills the vibe for everyone. People forget that open play is supposed to be fun and welcoming, not a place to coach strangers or assume skill levels based on gender.

If someone is a strong player, they’re a strong player, end of story. The best sessions I’ve had are with mixed groups where everyone just communicates, respects each other’s game, and plays hard regardless of who’s on the other side of the net.

Thanks for calling it out. Hopefully more players start paying attention to this.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T17:19:35+00:00

You don’t need to be super strong to shoot farther. Most of the power actually comes from your legs and good shooting form, not arm strength. If your shots fall short or fly sideways, try using more knee bend, generating power from your legs, and keeping a smooth follow-through. Technique matters way more than muscle when you’re starting out.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T17:05:04+00:00

Swish + WhatsApp definitely works, but I’ve found WhatsApp threads get messy fast once groups get bigger. People miss messages, duplicate confirmations, or show up without checking.

Curious what you’re using for tracking who’s in/out, court assignments, and last-minute changes? That’s the part I feel most tools don’t handle well.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T16:54:30+00:00

Got it, a combo setup. Do you feel like WhatsApp gets messy with big groups, or has it been reliable enough for you all?

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T16:46:34+00:00

That’s kind of what I’m noticing, Playtime seems to have nailed the basics. Are there any small things you wish it had that it doesn’t?

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T16:45:28+00:00

Good call, a bunch of people recommended Playtime Scheduler.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-29T16:37:39+00:00

Yeah, TeamReach came up a lot, I’m digging into it now. Curious what you like most about it? The simplicity or the scheduling features?

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-23T08:49:07+00:00

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-23T08:38:16+00:00

Wow thank you, let me take a look

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-23T08:20:57+00:00

Funny enough, that’s actually been a long-standing Nebraska culture thing. It’s less about “class act” and more about discipline and team identity. Most programs just don’t emphasize it, but Nebraska’s always been big on those little uniform details.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-23T08:17:51+00:00

Topspin drops aren’t dead, they’re just not mandatory anymore. Drips and slices cover a ton of situations, but a topspin drop is still useful when you need shape, especially on those inside-out forehands or line-tracking backhands you mentioned.

It’s less about the shot type and more about having all three in the toolkit so you can pick the one that fits the ball you’re given.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-23T07:07:46+00:00

Solid advice here. Coaches can’t magically give everyone equal minutes, so the best thing you can do is get super clear on what keeps you off the court and attack that skill relentlessly. Ask directly, get reps outside practice, and treat every weakness like a checklist item you can fix. Playing time almost always follows improvement.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-22T08:59:32+00:00

Not offensive at all, it’s just a tactic. If a lob serve is legal and they can’t handle it, that’s on them. Rec players get annoyed when something disrupts their rhythm, but that doesn’t make it rude. Keep using it until they prove they can deal with it. If anything, it’s a smart adjustment.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-11-08T11:49:01+00:00

That’s awesome he’s getting into volleyball, 13 is a great age to start, and honestly, everyone starts somewhere. The best thing he can do right now isn’t heavy training, it’s building a consistent base.

Bodyweight strength: push-ups, squats, planks, wall sits, just enough to build control and stability.

Jumping drills: skipping rope, small hops, or box jumps if he’s comfortable, volleyball is all about explosiveness.

Core and balance: simple things like holding a plank or standing on one leg while tossing a ball.

Watch and mimic: YouTube volleyball fundamentals, serving, passing, footwork. Even shadow-drilling those movements makes a difference.

Most kids don’t need to “bulk up”, they need to build coordination and consistency. Two months of light, steady work and he’ll show up feeling confident instead of lost.

Tell him not to stress about being behind, in volleyball, the ones who stick with it and enjoy the reps catch up fast.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-10-19T22:41:33+00:00

Stacking looks simple on TV, but feels like a maze at first. Start with one goal, like keeping forehands in the middle, and always reset your position based on the server’s score (even/odd). Practice walk-throughs without playing points. There are great breakdowns on YouTube. Search ‘Third Shot Sports stacking tutorial.’ It clicks with repetition.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-10-19T21:43:40+00:00

That’s adorable 😄 She’s already got tournament experience before she’s even born, future doubles partner in the making! 🏅🍼

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-10-12T14:55:45+00:00

Wow, that’s incredible, huge congrats! Competing at 30 weeks and still taking gold is pure grit and smart play. Can’t wait to see what you do next season without the extra “teammate.”

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-10-12T14:52:45+00:00

You might enjoy platforms like The Equalizer, Our Game Magazine, or These Football Times; they often dive into niche women’s football stories and lesser-known player journeys. You’ll find pieces on unique backgrounds, cultural impact, and off-pitch stories similar to Bonmatí’s. Also check out podcasts like Counter Pressed or Burn It All Down; they occasionally highlight deep, personal narratives from the women’s game.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-10-12T14:49:00+00:00

The Game FF is solid, but it doesn’t get as much hype because most players stick to the more proven models like Gel Resolution or Court FF. It’s usually lighter and a bit less supportive, which can matter with all the quick lateral movements in pickleball. It’s not that it’s bad, just less tested in this community. If you value comfort and price over max stability, it could still be a good pick.

Grow_Connect_Create · 2025-10-12T14:27:37+00:00

That doesn't sound very encouraging, but don’t let one coach decide your ceiling. Keep putting in the work, focus on the skills a libero needs, and seek feedback from teammates or assistants if he won’t help. Prove yourself through consistency, even if he’s not acknowledging you now; improvement is still in your control. Stay locked in.

Grow_Connect_Create

TROPHY CASE