What is Pickleball? | Why is it called Pickleball? | How do I get started?
WHAT IS PICKLEBALL?
Have you heard the buzz about this awesome "new" game called pickleball from family or friends? Read about the growing popularity of pickleball in your local newspaper or community newsletter? Confused about what the game of pickleball actually is and why it is becoming so popular? Read on! But first... watch this short video about what makes pickleball amazing.
What Makes Pickleball Amazing?!?
So what is "Pickleball"? I keep hearing people talk about it... what's all the fuss about? Why is it called Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton. It is played on a court that is roughly half the size of a tennis court. Players use "paddles" to strike the ball. The pickleball itself is similar to a wiffle ball. Note no actual "pickles" are involved :)
Like tennis, pickleball can be played in singles or doubles. Doubles is the far more popular way to play. Games are played to 11. If interested, we have lots more info on rules and strategy on our site.
Although you may have only recently heard about pickleball, it is not a "new" game. In fact, pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island by Joel Pritchard.
Why is the game called "pickleball"? Although there are differing accounts it believed that the game was named after Pritchard's dog, Pickles.
Is Pickleball Fun?
Yes! Pickleball is an incredibly fun activity. Give it a try - we can almost guarantee you'll love it. When we ask other players why they love pickleball we generally hear some combination of three answers:
- Fitness, Friendship, and FUN!
Once you get started you'll see why people of all ages and ability levels find it fun. It is a great way to stay active and stay connected with people in your community. Give it a try and you'll be smiling and sweating with new friends in no time :)
Who Should Play Pickleball? Who Is Pickleball Good For?
EVERYONE! When pickleball was invented one of the goals was to create a game the whole family could have fun playing.
Pickleball can be played by young kids and or those that are young at heart. We've seen people into their 80's on the court playing at a high level and having fun. A wonderful feature of the game is that there is something for all ages and ability levels in pickleball. What a beautiful thing it is that we have a game for virtually everyone! If you have any health issues it is always a good idea to check with your doctor before hitting the court.
Although pickleball has gained a lot of popularity among seniors, pickleball is a great sport for kids. Because the court is smaller and the ball doesn't move as fast as a tennis ball, it allows for a bit better rallies than tennis. If you're a school, church group, or community group that is interested in starting a youth pickleball program please contact us. In the past we have donated paddles to help these types of groups get started.
What Do I Need To Start Playing Pickleball?
- Comfortable Shoes
- Athletic Clothes (similar to what you'd wear to the gym... e.g. shorts and a t-shirt or tank top)
- A Paddle (check out our paddle guide if you need help deciding on the right paddle for you)
- Pickleballs
- A court. More and more places to play are popping up across the US!