What is Pickleball? For Those Who Are Curious

A Beginners Guide to Pickleball

Pickleball is a paddle sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played on a 20×44-foot court with a net at 36 inches high. Since its invention in 1965, it has grown into a global phenomenon, with 36 million players by 2025, cherished for its accessibility and social nature. The kitchen, a 7-foot non-volley zone near the net, adds a strategic layer, making pickleball a game where players of all ages can shine. This Pikipedia guide explores pickleball’s origins, its unique appeal, and how to get started, helping beginners and seasoned players alike discover the joy of the court.

At a Glance

The Origins of Pickleball – A Brief History

Pickleball began as a family-friendly game, evolving into a sport that connects players across generations. Its history unfolds through key milestones that shaped its growth and appeal:

1. 1965: Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum invent pickleball on Bainbridge Island, Washington, using a badminton court, ping-pong paddles, and a perforated plastic ball.

2. 1970s: The sport spreads across the U.S., with formalized rules like the kitchen—a 7-foot non-volley zone—encouraging strategic play over power.

3. 2025: Pickleball boasts 36 million players globally, from local parks to competitive tournaments, reflecting its universal charm.

These milestones highlight how pickleball’s simple origins and inclusive design have made it a beloved game, inviting players of all ages to join in the fun and create their own court memories.

Why Pickleball Shines – A Game for All

Pickleball’s appeal lies in its accessibility, blending strategy and social connection into a game that welcomes everyone. The court’s compact 20×44-foot size and low net make it easy to play, while the kitchen rule—banning volleys in the 7-foot zone—ensures strategy trumps power, allowing seniors and kids to compete together. Its low-impact nature supports physical health, improving balance and heart health, while the doubles format, common in 80% of games, fosters teamwork and laughter.

“Pickleball’s simplicity makes it a game for everyone—you don’t need to be an athlete to have fun!” – Coach Linda, Pickleball Central, 2024

This blend of accessibility and community makes pickleball a sport where every player, from beginners to seniors, can find joy, connection, and a chance to shine on the court.

Getting Started – Your First Steps on the Court

Starting pickleball is simple, requiring just a paddle, a perforated ball, and a court—often found in parks or community centers. The rules are straightforward: serve underhand below the waist, let the ball bounce once on each side before volleying, and score to 11, winning by 2. Beginners can take these steps to ease into the game and build confidence:

• Essential Gear:

  • Paddle: Larger than a ping-pong paddle, smaller than a tennis racket.

  • Ball: Perforated, moves slower for easier rallies.

• First Shots:

  • Serve: Start with an underhand swing, aiming for the diagonal court.

  • Dink: Practice soft shots into the kitchen to control rallies.

Doubles play encourages teamwork, making it a great way to connect with others, while singles offers a solid workout. Every swing brings you closer to the court’s legendary spirit.

Conclusion

Pickleball is more than a game—it’s a legacy of joy, strategy, and community that welcomes players of all ages to the court. From its 1965 origins to its 36 million players today, it offers a space to connect and grow. Start with a serve, share a laugh, and discover why pickleball shines. Bring these basics to your local court, share them with friends, and let each game inspire new connections. Your journey on the court can spark legendary moments that echo through pickleball’s history!