‘Speakin’ with Deakin’

Linda Jefferies

 

Steve Deakin, a multi-medal winning professional player & Pickleball Canada's 2021 Ambassador,  has successfully competed with and against the best players in the sport, and is ranked as Canada’s top male pickleball player. ‘“Speakin’ with Deakin” invites you to submit your questions to communications@pickleballcanada.org - Steve is waiting to hear from you! 

Steve, what mental tools do you use when you are under pressure on the court?

I have always been mentally tough regarding any of the sports I played. Having the ability, for example, to let a bad point go is much easier said than done. We are human and we all make mistakes. Bad ones too. It’s part of the game. I am a believer in using timeouts when I do not feel comfortable in a certain match situation. It’s amazing what a minute can do to calm yourself and get back on track. Another trick I use in situations when I may be struggling in a match is to get back to what I know I do well and that is a good safe drop, smooth transition, and a percentage dinking game. It’s incredible how quickly that settles me down and gets me feeling more confident. Lastly, I will keep this one simple...... deep breaths and have fun out there! 

 

 Do you have any pre-game or post-game routines?

I am an extremely routine oriented player. From the moment I wake up on game day to the time I go to bed, it is structured and deliberate. Right down to the way I pack my bag, what I eat when I eat, warm up routine, post match recovery, what clothes I wear, how and when I grip my paddle, etc. I literally could fill an entire page with this but I think everyone will get the picture that I need routine to succeed. I will share one thing I do after an event is over and only if I hit a podium. It is always pizza and a can of coke. Don’t judge me, haha!

 

What is  your favorite sport quote?

I have two favourites. 

“Show me the money”, and

“We talkin' about practice man”

 

 What motivates you most about your profession as an athlete?

The motivation for me is that every day is different and new challenges always present themselves. I think the journey to stay relevant at the pro level at the ripe age of 46 is also extremely motivating. I truly enjoy the battle with 20 and 30 somethings and figuring out how to do that is fun. The goals I set for myself also help keep me engaged and on track.