Pickling Season.

March 2025

Please don’t be like me and wrongly assume that pickleball is a sport strictly for retirees. It’s actually so enjoyable and I get why it’s become so popular in a short span of time. Pickleball is the electrifying sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, it’s a fast-paced game that’s easy to learn but yet challenging to master. I like how it’s played on a smaller court which encourages quick reflexes and strategic thinking, making it accessible for all ages and skill levels.

The rules are pretty simple, two people on each side of the court. The player on the right will serve first from behind the baseline. Please note that regardless if the ball is dropped from shoulder height or hit directly out the hand, your paddle must remain below your waist. Once served the ball must land into the larger box that is diagonally from whomever served. If it lands in the kitchen (red zone below) the wrong side or out of bounds, your turn is up and the serve goes to your partner. If your partner has all ready served it’s time for defense, as your opponents will try to rack up the points as they each serve. I also must mention that the ball must bounce only once before it’s returned. Once returned it must bounce once again before being hit. Then it may be hit in the air. Free tip- the kitchen should be treated like lava and you should avoid stepping into this area when possible. You’ll win by accumulating points while your team is serving and the game is up to 11 and you must win by 2.

So whether you’re an athlete or someone who wants to try new things, there’s a place for you on the court. So grab your paddle, rally your friends, and dive into the action. Pickleball is more than just a game—it's a movement that celebrates competition, camaraderie, and sheer fun. Play hard, play bold and whatever you do don’t get pickled! Linked below is the USA Pickleball website for more detailed information.

*Pickled is a term for losing a match without scoring a single point*