Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by three dads—Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum—who were looking for a fun, family-friendly game to play with their children. The original game used a modified badminton court, ping-pong paddles, and a perforated plastic ball. As the game evolved, they developed official rules that combined elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.

Legend has it that the sport was named after Pritchard’s family dog, “Pickles,” who would chase after the ball. However, others say the name came from the term “pickle boat,” referring to a boat crew made up of oarsmen from different teams—much like how pickleball is a mix of different sports.

Since its humble beginnings, pickleball has exploded in popularity across the United States and around the world. The sport’s rapid growth is due to its ease of play, social appeal, and adaptability for people of all ages and skill levels. Today, pickleball is played in over 70 countries, with professional tournaments, leagues, and federations promoting the game at every level.

Pickleball has grown from a backyard pastime to a global sport, and it continues to gain traction as more players discover its unique blend of fun, fitness, and competition.

Pickleball is a fun, fast-paced paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes, on a badminton-sized court with a slightly modified tennis net. The game can be played in singles or doubles, making it a versatile sport for all ages and skill levels.

Pickleball has gained immense popularity due to its simple rules and quick learning curve, making it an accessible sport for beginners while still providing a challenge for experienced athletes. Whether you’re looking for a casual game with friends or competitive matches, pickleball offers something for everyone.

• Court: The court is 20x44 feet, the same size as a badminton court.

• Serve: Serves must be hit underhand, and the ball must land diagonally in the opponent’s service area.

• Volley Zone: There’s a “non-volley zone” or “kitchen” near the net where players can’t hit the ball unless it bounces first.

• Scoring: Points are scored only by the serving team, and games are typically played to 11 points (win by 2).

• Easy to Learn: Pickleball’s straightforward rules make it easy to pick up, even for first-time players.

• Inclusive: It’s a low-impact sport suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

• Great Exercise: Pickleball provides a full-body workout, improving balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health.

• Social: With both competitive and casual play options, pickleball fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie among players.