Quiet Assassin or Joker?

One lets the paddle do the talking. The other keeps the court laughing—then hits another shot you can’t reach. Recognise either player?

In this episode, Mark calls them the Quiet Assassin and the Joking Assassin, or Joker. These are playful observations, not official player categories or skill ratings.

Watch Mark’s court observations

A captioned, 40-second Founder’s Journal episode.

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Quiet Assassin or Joker—which one does your pickleball buddy recognise?

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The Quiet Assassin: placement does the talking

A soft angle pulls you wide. The next shot finds the space you left. This player doesn’t need a running commentary to make the rally difficult.

Watch the choices behind the shots: placement, patience and the open court. If this sounds like you, a quick score call, a clear “mine” or “yours,” and a friendly acknowledgement can keep your partner involved.

The Joker: friendly banter, serious competition

The Joker smiles, cracks a joke and sends another difficult ball your way. A relaxed manner doesn’t necessarily mean a relaxed game.

Mark’s humour highlights that contrast. At a recreational drop-in, players may arrive with very different expectations. Enjoy the banter, but speak up if the pace or shot selection makes the game uncomfortable.

Agree on the game before you play

Try this simple question before the first serve:

“Are we keeping this relaxed, or does everyone want a competitive game?”

• Match the session. Consider the group’s experience and whether you’re practising, socialising or competing.
• Keep jokes friendly. Laugh together without making someone’s mistakes the punchline.
• Check in. Pause if someone is uncomfortable; if a ball hits a player, check that they’re okay.

For broader guidance on respect and fair play, see the USA Pickleball Sportsmanship Guide. The suggestions here are about enjoying recreational play, rather than changing the rules.

Which one shows up at your courts?

You might be quiet with one group and the person telling jokes with another. The labels are part of the fun; they don’t define you.

Share the episode with your pickleball buddy and tell us in the YouTube comments: Quiet Assassin, Joker—or a little of both?

Playing doubles? Read Vocal Energizer vs Quiet Assassin: understanding your partner for a different perspective on communication between points.