TINGKAT KETEPATAN SMASH DALAM PERMAINAN PICKLEBALL PADA ATLET PICKLEBALL JAMBI

Abstract

Based on the researcher's observations, the athletes' fundamental technical skills during the defensive and transition phases of play have generally demonstrated good and consistent performance. Their ball control (ball feeling) and defensive strategies through dink and drive shots have developed well. However, these strengths have not been matched by the ability to execute smash shots accurately and effectively. This imbalance indicates that while ball control and defensive execution are relatively mature, smash accuracy remains the primary weakness, often resulting in missed opportunities to score points. To date, there has been no clear, objective, and measurable data regarding the level of smash accuracy among Jambi pickleball athletes, making their actual performance difficult to determine. Furthermore, a review of previous studies revealed that no research has specifically examined smash accuracy among pickleball athletes in Jambi. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the level of smash accuracy in pickleball among Jambi pickleball athletes. This research employed a quantitative descriptive approach using a survey method. Since the population consisted of fewer than 30 individuals, a total sampling technique was applied, allowing all members of the population to participate in the study. Accordingly, the sample comprised 20 athletes.

Keywords: Smash Accuracy, Pickleball, Jambi Pickleball Athletes.