Mastering the Erne in Pickleball to Dominate a Play

“Champions keep playing until they get it right.” – Billie Jean King

If you’ve played pickleball for any length of time, you may have heard players or spectators excitedly calling out “Erne!” during a match. The Erne is one of the most exciting, high-level shots in the game, allowing players to legally volley the ball from outside the kitchen while catching opponents off guard. This aggressive, fast-paced move can be a game-changer—if executed correctly.

In this blog, we’ll break down what the Erne is, how to execute it, and when to use it effectively in a match.

What is an Erne in Pickleball?

An Erne (pronounced “Ernie”) is a volley shot taken outside the kitchen (non-volley zone), near the sideline or beyond the net post. By positioning themselves outside the NVZ, a player can legally attack the ball without stepping into the kitchen—giving them an advantage by cutting off angles and surprising their opponents.

The shot is named after Erne Perry, an early pickleball player who popularized the move with his aggressive and creative style of play.

How to Execute an Erne

The Erne requires timing, quick footwork, and strategic positioning. There are two main ways to set up for an Erne:

The Lateral Erne (Sideline Approach)

• Stand at the NVZ line (kitchen line) near the sideline.
• Watch for your opponent to dink the ball close to the sideline.
• As the ball approaches, quickly step sideways outside the court.
• Volley the ball out of the air before it bounces to execute the Erne.

The Forward Erne (Sneaking Up Approach)

• Start near the baseline or transition zone as your opponent hits a soft shot.
• Move forward aggressively along the sideline, staying just outside the NVZ.
• Time your approach so that you’re in position just as the ball reaches the sideline.
• Volley the ball before it bounces and aim for an offensive winner.

Both versions require anticipation, court awareness, and speed to surprise opponents and end the rally quickly.

Why Use the Erne?

The Erne is a powerful and effective shot because it:

• Takes away reaction time.
  The ball is intercepted before it reaches opponents, reducing their ability to react.
• Creates a sharp attack angle.
  The close proximity to the net allows for a steep downward shot, making returns difficult.
• Puts pressure on opponents.
  Opponents may hesitate to hit shots near the sideline for fear of setting up an Erne.
• Is a surprise offensive move.
  Many players don’t expect an Erne, making it a great momentum-shifting shot.

When to Use the Erne

Timing is everything when it comes to executing an Erne successfully. Here’s when to look for an Erne opportunity:

• When your opponent dinks or drops the ball near the sideline.
  If the ball consistently lands near the edge, it’s the perfect time to set up for an Erne.
• Against opponents who play predictable shots.
  If an opponent keeps placing soft shots near the NVZ sideline, you can anticipate and pounce on an Erne opportunity.
• When you’re looking to finish a point quickly.
  If your opponents are on the defensive, an Erne can help end the rally decisively.
• When your team needs to shift momentum.
  A well-executed Erne can disrupt your opponents’ rhythm and force them to adjust their strategy.

How to Defend Against an Erne

While the Erne is a powerful tool, it’s not unstoppable. Here are ways to counter an opponent who loves to execute Ernes:

• Avoid hitting predictable shots near the sideline.
  Instead, aim for the center of the kitchen or cross-court dinks.
• Use lob shots.
  A well-placed lob can force an Erne-attempting player out of position.
• Speed up play down the middle.
  Attacking the middle of the court prevents your opponent from sneaking outside for an Erne.
• Watch their positioning.
  If your opponent starts shifting toward the sideline, they may be setting up for an Erne—adjust your shots accordingly.

Game Point

The Erne is a high-level pickleball shot that can completely change the dynamic of a match. It allows aggressive players to take control, put pressure on their opponents, and win points in a flashy and effective way.

By learning how to recognize, execute, and defend against the Erne, you can add a new dimension to your pickleball game. The next time you’re on the court, keep an eye out for the opportunity to pull off this game-changing move!

See you on the courts!

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