Shot Mechanics Explained/Part 2

zThe Guide Hand/2 :

The guide hand or my preference( control hand) is the key to shot accuracy so what you do or do not do with the hand matters greatly. In part one I explained its functions during the shot sequence. The goal of the guide hand is to aid the shot without interfering with it. This is where the skill of it resides..Too many amateur players have what is known as guide hand interference.I will give two main examples of what that means.

1)The positioning of the guide hand on the ball. It matters because based on how the hand is positioned on the ball will determine one of several things. A clean release if the hand is placed properly. A thumb flick if it is set too high on the ball(less control)and an awkward uncoordinated release where the shot feels unnatural if it is set too far near the front of the ball. The guide hand should be set directly on the side of the ball with relaxed fingers evenly spread apart for comfort and feel. The shot should have a natural feel to it. I have also seen players placed the guide hand thumb facing down and pointed outward while the other fingers are facing upward towards the target. This positioning creates tension in the thumb making it difficult to create proper backspin on the ball that softens the shot and makes it more fluid.

2)The second major interference I see among youth players is gripping the ball with the guide hand. This is a major mechanical flaw as this creates opposition between the hands. The shooting hand is trying to fire the shot out while the guide hand is resisting the motion causing either side spin on the ball or what is known as a knuckle ball shot(no spin). This breaks down the kinetic chain of flow (that makes great mechanics look graceful).

Conclusion: If the guide is placed properly on the ball with just enough pressure applied to keep the ball stable without resistance and both hands are coordinated then you will develop a clean ,fluid,consistent shot.