introduction

Pickleball is a dynamic and fascinating sport that has captured the hearts of millions of people around the world. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, this game offers a unique blend of excitement, strategy, and physical activity. Pickleball has something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced athlete or a curious beginner. In this guide, we delve into the interesting origins of the game, share some interesting fun facts, and provide a detailed overview of the rules to get you started on your pickleball journey.

Origin of pickleball

The history of pickleball began in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a picturesque resort near Seattle, Washington. Congressman Joel Pritchard and his friend, successful businessman Bill Bell, were looking for a way to entertain their family on a lazy summer afternoon. With limited resources at their disposal, they decided to improvise. They found an old badminton court but didn’t have enough equipment so they had to get creative.

Pritchard and Bell devised a simple but appealing game using a table tennis paddle and a plastic ball with holes. They put down the badminton net and started playing, but they soon realized they had found something special. Another friend, Bernie McCallum, joined them, and together they refined the rules and gameplay, leading to the birth of pickleball.

Its name is “pickleball”

The name “pickleball” has two fascinating and controversial origins. According to one story, the game was named after Joel Pritchard’s dog, Pickles. Pickles loved chasing balls in his early games, so much so that his family affectionately called him “Pickle Ball,” which eventually became “Pickleball.”

Another theory is that the name derives from the term “pickle boat” for a rowboat, referring to a crew made up of rowers left over from other boats. Joan Pritchard, Joel’s wife, likened the game to this concept because it combines elements from different sports such as tennis, badminton and table tennis. Both stories are told by the founder and his family, but the true origin may be a mixture of both. Regardless of which story is true, the quirky and memorable names definitely contribute to the game’s appeal and charm.

game rules

courtroom

• size: A standard pickleball court is 20 feet by 44 feet, the same size as a doubles badminton court. Net height is set at 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. These dimensions make the court smaller than a tennis court and encourage quick reflexes and strategic play.
• marking: The court is divided into two service areas on either side separated by a center line. In addition, there is a 7-foot no-volley zone on each side of the net, commonly referred to as the “kitchen.” The no-volley zone is very important in preventing offensive smashes near the net and adds a layer of strategy to the game.

Basic rules

serve

• underhand serve: The serve must be executed underhand so that the paddle contacts the ball below the server’s waist. This rule makes the serve more about placement and control than power.
• diagonal service: The serve must be directed diagonally across the court and must land in the opponent’s service box. Only one serve attempt is allowed. The exception is in the case of a let, where the ball touches the net but falls into the correct service box. In such cases, the serve will be retaken.

Scoring

• serve and score: In pickleball, only the serving team can earn points. Games are usually played for 11 points, and teams must win by two points. This scoring system keeps the game competitive and exciting, often resulting in intense rallies and strategic play.
• win with serve: If the serving team loses the rally, the serve is passed to the opposing team. In doubles play, both partners on a team are given a chance to serve before the serve switches to the opposing team. This system is known as the “side-out” scoring method.

double bounce rule

• mandatory bounce: To encourage longer rallies and reduce the advantage of serving, the double bounce rule requires the ball to bounce once on each side of the net before a player hits it in the air (volley). This rule encourages strategic placement of shots and enhances the overall flow of the game.

No Volley Zone (The Kitchen)

• Zone restrictions: The no-volley zone, or kitchen, extends 7 feet from the net on each side. Players cannot volley the ball while standing in this zone. This rule prevents aggressive net play and encourages strategic shot placement and rallies.
• step into: A player can enter the kitchen and play a ball that bounces within the zone, but must exit the zone before making the volley. This adds a layer of complexity and strategy to net play and is an important aspect of pickleball.

fact

Pickleball is more than just a fad, it’s a worldwide phenomenon. From its humble beginnings in the United States, the sport has spread to many countries, including Canada, Spain, and India. Pickleball participation has increased significantly, with more than 4.8 million players in the United States alone, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. The growth rate of this sport is impressive, with more and more people discovering the joy of pickleball every year.

Explore pickleball venues near you

Progress of Pickleball in India

Pickleball has grown significantly in popularity in India over the past few years. The sport attracted the attention of enthusiasts across the country, leading to the creation of numerous pickleball clubs and associations. Cities like Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi have become hubs of pickleball activity, with tournaments and events being held regularly. The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has played an important role in promoting the sport, organizing training camps and encouraging international participation. With increased media coverage and increased access to facilities, pickleball is quickly becoming a favorite pastime for many Indians. The sport’s inclusive nature and ease of play make it particularly appealing to a diverse demographic, promoting a sense of community and healthy competition. As interest continues to grow, the future of pickleball in India is very promising and has the potential to become a mainstream sport enjoyed by millions of people.

^{Khelomore.com and All India Pickleball Association are partnering to transform pickleball in India.}

Pickleball is a sport that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or skill level. Its rich history, simple and strategic rules with a unique blend of elements from other sports make it an incredibly fun and approachable game. Whether you want to stay active, socialize with friends, or participate in some friendly competition, pickleball is a great option. Pick up your paddle, find a court, and experience the excitement of pickleball for yourself. This is a game that is easy to learn, fun to play, and hard to resist.