The Rise of Pickleball

Discover Pickleball: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Are you ready to dive into one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S.? Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into a dynamic game that’s easy on the knees and hips. Learn how to get started with pickleball and why it's the perfect sport for players of all ages.

What Is Pickleball?

Pickleball is an engaging sport played on a court about one-quarter the size of a tennis court. It blends features from tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, making it accessible and fun for players at all skill levels. Whether you’re new to sports or an experienced athlete, pickleball offers a great workout with less impact on your joints.

Why Is Pickleball So Popular?

Pickleball’s popularity is skyrocketing due to its unique mix of accessibility and competitiveness. As pickleball pro Robert Leonard from Denver’s Gates Tennis Center puts it, “My 70-year-old dad can play as much as he wants, and the pros can play as hard as we want.” This inclusiveness is a key factor in its rapid growth.

Tanner Vann, another pro at Gates Tennis Center, initially thought pickleball was for older adults but was soon proven wrong. “It’s the fastest-growing sport in the country because people of all ages can play,” Vann says. Pickleball provides both strategic depth and physical challenge, keeping even the most athletic players engaged.

The Rise of Pickleball

Invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, pickleball has seen tremendous growth. According to USA Pickleball, there are now over 4.2 million players in the U.S. The sport’s popularity surged by 21.3% from 2019 to 2020, showcasing its rapid expansion. Many parks and recreation centers are adding pickleball courts or converting tennis courts to meet the increasing demand.

Where Can You Play Pickleball?

Pickleball courts are appearing in public parks and tennis facilities across the country. A standard tennis court can accommodate up to four pickleball courts, making it easy for tennis facilities to add or convert their spaces for pickleball.

How to Get Started with Pickleball

To start playing pickleball, you’ll need a few essentials: a paddle, some balls, and a place to play. Paddles range from $40 to $200, with higher-quality options made from graphite. Many facilities, such as Gates Tennis Center, offer paddle demos to help you find the right one. Comfortable tennis shoes with non-marking soles are recommended to prevent injuries and protect the court.

A Brief History of Pickleball

Pickleball was created by former Washington State Rep. Joel Pritchard and his friend Bill Bell in 1965. They used ping-pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball on a badminton court when they couldn’t find the right equipment. The sport’s name is believed to be inspired either by the “pickle boat” in rowing or by the Pritchard family dog, Pickles, who loved to chase the ball.

Is Pickleball Social and Easy to Learn?

Yes, pickleball is both social and easy to learn. Typically played in doubles, it’s a social sport where players interact on a small court. Games are fast-paced and often conclude within 11 points, keeping the action lively and allowing for frequent player rotation. Many people find pickleball a fun way to spend time with friends and family.

How to Serve and Score in Pickleball

Pickleball serves are underhand and must be hit below the server’s belly button, traveling diagonally into the opponent’s service court. Unlike tennis, the serve starts the point rather than winning it outright.

Scoring can be complex initially. The server announces three numbers: the points for each side and the server’s status (1 or 2). Points can only be scored by the serving team, and a game is won by reaching 11 points with at least a 2-point lead. Tournament games may extend to 15 or 21 points.

Tips for Beginners

Robert Leonard advises beginners to start with a positive attitude. “Be kind to yourself,” he says. Begin by focusing on rallying with a partner before working on serves and scoring. As you gain confidence, you can practice more advanced aspects of the game.

What’s a ‘Dink’?

A “dink” is a soft shot that just clears the net and lands in the no-volley zone near the net. Mastering the dink is crucial in pickleball as it forces your opponent to hit up, giving you a chance to control the point.

Pickleball’s Portability

One of pickleball’s advantages is its portability. You can easily pack your paddles and balls for trips and find local games or set up makeshift courts on driveways or streets.

Final Advice

Leonard’s simple advice for newcomers is: “Give pickleball a try.” The sport offers a unique blend of strategy, social interaction, and physical activity that appeals to players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're seeking a new hobby or a competitive challenge, pickleball is an excellent choice.

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