What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is more than just a game—it’s a movement. With its rapid rise in popularity, this exciting sport blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're new to the sport or just curious about what makes it so popular, this guide will walk you through the basics of pickleball and why it’s taking the world by storm.
A Brief History of Pickleball
Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by three dads—Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum—who wanted to create a fun, family-friendly game. Using a badminton-sized court, a modified net, wooden paddles, and a perforated plastic ball, they developed a sport that quickly grew into a nationwide sensation.
How Pickleball Is Played
Pickleball is played on a court similar to a badminton court, but with a lower net. Players use solid paddles to hit a plastic ball with holes (similar to a wiffle ball) over the net. The game can be played as singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two-on-two), and the objective is to score points by serving and rallying until the opposing team makes a fault.
Key rules include:
The Serve: Must be underhand and diagonally placed into the opponent’s service box.
The Double Bounce Rule: The ball must bounce once on each side before players can volley (hit without letting it bounce).
The Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen): Players cannot volley the ball while standing inside the seven-foot zone near the net.
Scoring: Only the serving team can score points, and games are typically played to 11, 15, or 21 points, with a two-point lead required to win.
Why Is Pickleball So Popular?
Pickleball’s explosive growth can be attributed to a few key factors:
✅ Easy to Learn: The rules are simple, making it perfect for beginners.
✅ Low-Impact & Social: It’s easier on the joints compared to tennis and provides a fun, community-driven experience.
✅ Great for All Ages: From kids to seniors, pickleball welcomes everyone.
✅ Fast-Paced & Addictive: Once you start playing, it’s hard to stop!
Ready to Join the Fun?
If you're looking to try pickleball, now is the perfect time to start! At Courtside Pickleball and Tennis Club, we offer premier outdoor courts, lighted for evening play, and a welcoming environment for both beginners and seasoned players. Grab a paddle and experience why this sport is growing faster than ever.
