Pickleball is an easy-to-learn sport, yet it offers plenty of opportunities for skill development. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, making it an exciting and accessible game for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're new to the game or an experienced player, here's how you can play pickleball.
Equipment Needed:
Before you get started, you'll need the following equipment:
- Paddle: Pickleball paddles are typically made of wood or composite materials. They're larger than ping-pong paddles and smaller than tennis racquets.
- Pickleball: A perforated plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball, is used for the game.
- Court: The pickleball court measures 20' x 44', which is smaller than a tennis court. It has a 36-inch high net.
- Proper Footwear: Tennis or court shoes are ideal for good grip and comfort.
Basic Rules:
Here are the basic rules to understand when playing pickleball:
- The Serve: The game begins with an underhand serve. The server must hit the ball diagonally across the court to the opposite side. The serve must clear the non-volley zone.
- Double Bounce Rule: After the serve, both teams must allow the ball to bounce once before hitting it. Only after these two bounces can the ball be volleyed or played off the bounce.
- Volleys: Players can hit the ball out of the air (volley), but not within the 7-foot non-volley zone on either side of the net.
- Scoring: Points are scored when the opposing team commits a fault, such as hitting the ball out of bounds, into the net, or failing to return a serve. Games are typically played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least 2 points.
How to Play the Game?
Pickleball is played in singles or doubles format. Here’s the step-by-step gameplay:
- The Serve: One player serves from behind the baseline, and the ball must land in the diagonal service box on the opposite side.
- The Return: The opposing player or team must let the ball bounce once before returning it. Then both teams take turns hitting the ball back and forth.
- The Rally: Players continue to rally, hitting the ball either out of the air (volley) or after it bounces. The ball must stay within the boundaries of the court.
- Faults: A fault occurs when a player hits the ball out of bounds, into the net, or doesn’t adhere to the basic rules (such as stepping into the non-volley zone while volleying).
- Scoring a Point: Points are won when the opposing team commits a fault. If the serving team wins a point, the server switches sides (in doubles play) and continues serving.
Winning the Game!
To win a game of pickleball, a team must reach 11 points with at least a 2-point lead. If the score reaches 10-10, play continues until one team leads by 2 points. In some cases, matches may be played to 15 or 21 points.
Additional Tips:
- Stay Active: Stay light on your feet and always be ready for the ball. Pickleball can change direction quickly.
- Practice Your Serve: The serve is a crucial part of the game. Practicing your serve ensures you start each point off strong.
- Learn to Volley: Mastering volleys will make you a stronger player, as most of the game is played with volleys.
- Stay Positive: Pickleball is all about having fun and enjoying the game. Focus on improving and having a good time!
