Pickleball is a great and unique sport that is played enthusiastically by many people around the world. It is a social and friendly activity and at the same time a very exciting challenge. One of the best things about pickleball is that it is very easy to learn. The rules are straightforward and the game is very easy to master. But don't be fooled, because it can quickly turn into a fast-paced and competitive game. It's a sport for all ages and fitness levels, so it's accessible to everyone. The Ball flies at a breathtaking speed and maneuvers can lead to fast and exciting changes of strokes. Therefore, for many people pickleball has turned out to be one of the best recreational sports that you can play with friends, family and new acquaintances.
The Basics
- A fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong.
- Played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net.
- You play with a Paddle and a plastic ball that has holes.
- Played as doubles or singles.
- Can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels
Pickleball Court Layout
A pickleball court is the same size as a double badminton court; the court measures 20 × 44 feet (6.10 × 13.41 m).
In Pickleball, the same court is used for both singles and doubles.
The Net height is 91.44 cm (36 inches) at the edge and 86.36 cm (34 inches) in the center.
The court is similar to a tennis court with right and left service courts and a 7-foot (213.4 cm) non-volley zone (NVZ) in front of the net (referred to as the "kitchen").
Playgrounds can be built specifically for pickleball or converted from existing tennis or badminton courts.
The overall size of the field (including space outside the lines) should be at least 10.36 × 19.5 m (34 × 64 ft), including for tournament play. Wheelchair and stadium fields are even bigger.
History
Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. Three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities — are credited for creating game. Pickleball has evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout the US and Canada. The game is growing internationally as well, with many European and Asian countries adding courts.