In The Kitchen…The Spirit of the Swing: How To Get The Mental Edge

In full disclosure, this series of articles for 2025 will focus on pickleball. Now, please don’t stop reading because you are a tried-and-true tennis player. Rather, recognize the similarities of all racket sports. On an applied level, there is much to learn from other sports which require a racket or paddle. And from a mental perspective the similarities also far outweigh the differences. I play tennis, pickleball, beach tennis and table tennis. I learn from each sport and always apply bits and pieces to the other. In short, any racket sport is connected by the Spirit of the Swing!

Ask any athlete how important the mental game is, and most would say it’s between 50 percent and 99 percent of competition. In individual sports like pickleball, tennis, running and swimming, the value always pushes the higher limits. In team sports like baseball, basketball, lacrosse and football, it also has great relevance.

Remember Yogi Berra’s famous and funny quote, “Baseball is 90 percent mental. The other half is physical.” However, many pickleball players don’t understand how important the mental game is, and ultimately, how to unlock the mystery of it. I believe that the first step is to take a step back and ask yourself some very important questions. By doing this, not only will you have a better understanding of the mental game, but you will also understand how it specifically applies to you and how to unlock it.

Who has the mental edge?

Three top pickleball players come to mind: Ben Johns, Simone Jardin and Anna Leigh Waters. Look past Ben’s cat-like reflexes, Simone’s amazing consistency, and Anna’s impressive aggressive style and you will notice a common theme: their mental calmness and presence of mind even under high-pressure situations. These players have dominated the game since its inception, demonstrating their passion to compete, perseverance to learn, and ability to ride the ups and downs of the game.

Similarly, other great athletes like NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes, NBA star Stephen Curry, and recently retired tennis legend Roger Federer come to mind. These players inspire everyone around them; they never seem concerned with what they cannot control, whether it’s a bad call, a raucous environment in a rival stadium, or a particularly aggressive opponent. They play in the moment and compete with purpose, persistence, and patience, while also showing respect for their opponents, the game, and themselves.

What is the mental edge?

The mental edge is the ability to consistently manage and rise above adversity, adapt to challenges, and play in the present moment. Other characteristics include patience, calmness under pressure, letting go of what they cannot control, and being ok when in challenging, uncomfortable situations. Athletes with the mental edge always seem to play within themselves and have the ability to raise their level when it’s needed most.

When do you need the mental edge?

Really, all the time. It’s necessary when you are drilling, playing games or reflecting on your performance after a match. Staying mentally balanced and composed under adversity is truly the mark of a champion. Most pickleball players can win when they are playing well, with momentum and their confidence. They are also fine when far out in front. However, the true champions are the ones who find a way to win when they are not playing their best or down a game or game points. Athletes with the mental edge take nothing for granted, give a full effort, and trust their process no matter the score or situation.

Where does the mental edge come from?

The mental edge lies within each of us. It starts on the inside and can be cultivated on the outside by people who inspire us, other competitors, and experiences. The key is to trust your individual process and focus on being your best while learning from mistakes, setbacks, obstacles and successes. Think of Michelangelo: when he bought a block of marble, he knew that the David was inside! Chip by chip, just like dink by dink, his masterpiece appeared for the world to see. In his mind, the masterpiece already lay within the block of stone, but his genius rested in figuring how to uncover it!

Why is the mental edge important?

It’s the glue that holds everything together. When you have it, everything flows. The player exhibits flexibility in all situations, accepts imperfection, manages adversity, and never gives away free points. The ability to stay calm, centered and concentrated is what sets apart the best players. We all know that it’s impossible to be perfect; however, players with the mental edge may not like imperfection, but they give themselves permission to miss and then play the next shot. Cutting themselves this slack allows them to relax, and paradoxically they don’t miss! A great mental approach is the most surefire way to walk into competition calmly and with an advantage.

How do I get the mental edge?

Many pickleball players don’t understand that, similar to confidence and winning, the mental edge is a consequence of actions, behaviors, commitment, experience, and discipline, among other factors. Great players are highly self-aware and trust themselves, their sport, and their personal process. Just like practicing your technical skill set, commit to each workout, practice and compete with purpose, intention, passion, and a focus on what you can control.