Pickleball 101: The Basics of the Game

Pickleball is a fast-paced and fun sport that's easy to learn and play. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, it's important to understand the basic rules of the game to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Here are the key rules of pickleball:

1. Court Dimensions: Pickleball is played on a court that's 20 x 44 feet for doubles and 20 x 34 feet for singles. The court is divided into two equal halves by a non-volley zone, also known as the kitchen.

2. Scoring: Pickleball is played to 11 points, and you must win by 2 points. If the score reaches 10-10, play continues until one player wins by 2 points.

3. Serving: A serve starts the game and each point. The server must serve the ball underhand, and the ball must cross the non-volley zone before it can be returned.

4. Volleys: Volleys are shots taken before the ball bounces. You cannot volley within the non-volley zone (kitchen).

5. Dinking: Dinking is a type of soft shot that's used to keep the ball in play and prevent a strong return from your opponent. Dinking is allowed anywhere on the court.

6. Doubles Play: In doubles play, players take turns serving and the serve must be returned by the other team. In doubles play, the ball cannot be returned out of bounds by a player's partner.

7. Let Calls: If the ball hits the net on a serve or return and still lands in bounds, it's called a "let" and the point is replayed.

8. Faults: A fault occurs if the ball goes out of bounds, if a serve lands outside the proper serving area, or if a player volleys within the non-volley zone.

These are the basic rules of pickleball. By understanding these rules and following them, you'll ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone on the court. So, grab your paddle, hit the court, and let the games begin!