Have you ever wondered how some players—no matter their age—just seem to win more often?

Today, I’m joined by my friend Jim. We’ve been friends since he first picked up a paddle, and even at 90 years old, he still regularly beats players half his age. Everyone wants to know how he does it.

The truth is, it’s not about power or youth—it’s about consistency, intelligence, and strategy. These are timeless principles any player can use to become more consistent and keep playing for decades to come.

Hi, I’m C.J. Johnson, we help pickleball players of all ages live their best lives on and off the court. Today, Jim’s sharing the five strategies that make him such a tough opponent—plus a bonus tip that will save you a few easy points a game.

Strategy #1 – Mastering the Soft Game (Drop Shots & Dinks)

Most players think pickleball is all about power. Jim knows better. “The soft game is what lets you control the court,” he says.

Jim’s drop shot and dink are legendary—and his secret? A short swing and getting below the ball.

“I keep my paddle out in front, a very short swing, and get below the ball.”

• Short swing = control
• Paddle in front = consistency
• Get below the ball = margin for error

Remember: the only opponent you can’t beat is the net.

Strategy #2 – High, Deep Returns for Better Court Positioning

Jim’s second secret? Hit your returns high and deep. He aims for a nice arc—deep enough to push his opponent back and high enough to buy himself time to move forward.

“I’m trying to get it deep with a nice arc so it gives me time to move up.”

• Height + depth = more time
• Move forward under control
• Split step before your opponent’s shot

Jim doesn’t need to outrun anyone—he just out-positions them.

Click here for free training on smarter court strategy.

Strategy #3 – Stay Low & Ready at the Kitchen Line

Many players stand tall and flat-footed at the kitchen line. Not Jim. “I bend my knees, stay on the balls of my feet, and keep my paddle out front,” he says.

• Bend your knees
• Paddle up and out front
• Stay on the balls of your feet

It’s not about reflexes—it’s about readiness.

Strategy #4 – Use Patience to Wait for the Right Attack

Jim’s patience at the NVZ is legendary. “My reaction time isn’t what it used to be,” he admits. “So I have to be patient and wait for the ball.”

Instead of attacking low balls, he moves opponents side-to-side until one gives him a ball high enough to attack safely.

• Patience creates opportunity
• Move your opponents first
• Only attack balls above the net

Strategy #5 – Blocking Power Shots with Controlled Volleys

Hard hitters don’t intimidate Jim. His secret? The block volley. “Stay relaxed, have your paddle ready, and absorb the blow,” he says.

• Stay loose and balanced
• Weight forward, not on heels
• Absorb the pace—don’t fight it

Bonus Tip – Let Out Balls Go

Jim’s final piece of wisdom: let the out balls go. Many players can’t resist one more swing—but the smartest play is often no play at all.

“Block the first one, maybe two, and then let the next out ball go.”

Final Thoughts

At 90 years old, Jim proves that great pickleball isn’t about being the youngest or fastest—it’s about mastering fundamentals that stand the test of time.

1. Master the soft game
2. Hit high, deep returns
3. Stay low and ready
4. Be patient at the kitchen
5. Block, don’t bash

Apply these consistently, and you’ll still be winning games long after others hang up their paddles.