So you’re curious about pickleball? Great! This sport combines the best parts of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, creating a fast-paced, super fun game that’s easy to pick up. Here’s a quick rundown to get you in the game.
The Game at a Glance
Pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court (20x44 feet) with a net that’s a bit lower in the middle. It can be singles or doubles (two per team), but doubles is the go-to. The game kicks off with an underhand serve, and here’s the twist: the ball has to bounce on both sides before players start volleying it back and forth. After those two bounces, you’re free to hit the ball in the air or after a bounce—up to you!
Keeping Score
In doubles, only the serving team can score points, and games are usually played to 11 (you need to win by 2). Serves alternate between teammates, and when both teammates lose a serve, it’s the other team’s turn to serve. Simple, but adds an extra layer of strategy.
Key Terms to Know
- Serve: Underhand start to each rally.
- Volley: Hitting the ball out of the air—no bounces.
- Kitchen: The 7-foot “no-volley zone” near the net.
- Dink: A soft shot that drops just over the net, perfect for the kitchen area.
- Double Bounce Rule: Both teams must let the ball bounce once on each side before volleying.
Positioning
Stay aware of your position, especially around the kitchen and baseline. Start at the baseline for serves, then move closer to the net to take advantage of quicker, winning volleys.
Ready to Play?
If you’re set to hit the court, you just need a paddle, a ball, and a place to play. Reach out to us at MINT, and we’ll connect you with upcoming events, local groups, and all the pickleball excitement you can handle. Join us, bring your friends, and let’s make pickleball happen!
