pickleball

No experience, partner or pickle required

With its tongue firmly in its cheek, the United States of America Pickleball Association (USAPA) website describes “Pickleballmania” as a “highly contagious, progressive, and incurable disease."   

But, let's just hold off calling the doctor.  Pickleball is a healthy, fun, and great way to meet new people.  True, it's possibly addictive.  But, we say Y-not?

It's FREE to Y-members.
It's FREE to Silver Sneakers members.
Non-members can certainly play for a small fee.  Contact your Pickleball branch for details.

• You don't need a partner.
• Previous knowledge is not required.  It's easy to learn and we'll teach you.
  

WATCH the VIDEO

What is pickleball?

In its simplest terms, pickleball is a cross between tennis, badminton, ping-pong. It's played on an indoor or outdoor court, that's about 1/2 the size of a tennis court with a lower net.  

Although there are varying stories concerning its origin, most agree that the game was created on an island off the coast of Washington state.  A couple of golfing dads returned home to play with their children in a rousing game of badminton, but could not find the shuttlecock.  A wiffle ball was used instead.

Later, badminton rackets were replaced with something a bit sturdier (like an enlarged ping-pong paddle), the net was lowered and official rules were developed.

As for the pickle association?  That story varies.  But, one of the creators had a cocker spaniel who kept running after and stealing the straying wiffle balls.

The dog's name? Pickle.    

how is it played?  (The official rules)  

Just the mere Basics:

The Two Bounce Rule
The ball must bounce twice, once on each side of the court, before players can hit the ball in the air

The game of Pickleball is usually played to a score of 11. The winning team must win by two points or play continues until one team wins by 2. 

Serving
The server must serve underhand making contact with the ball below the waist. 

Calling Lines
Players should call the lines on their side of the net and opponents will do the same on their side.  Remember it is only a game. 

where is it played?

* You do not need to come at the beginning or stay the whole time.