Hello, I'm Nathan Derry with JohnHart Real Estate, and today we're diving into the exciting world of pickleball. Whether you've heard of it or are just curious about the buzz, pickleball is a sport that's capturing hearts and minds across the globe. Let's explore its origins, how it's played, the rules, and why it has become so popular.

The Origins of Pickleball

Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by three dads—Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum—who were looking for a fun activity for their families during the summer. They improvised using ping-pong paddles, a perforated plastic ball, and a badminton court. The game quickly evolved into a sport of its own, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.

The name "pickleball" has an interesting backstory. Some say it was named after Pritchard's dog, Pickles, who would chase after the ball. However, according to Joan Pritchard, Joel Pritchard's wife, the name actually came from the term "pickle boat," which refers to the last boat to return with its catch in rowing—a mix of leftover rowers from different teams, much like how pickleball borrows elements from various sports.

How to Play Pickleball

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Pickleball is played on a court that is 20 feet by 44 feet, similar to a doubles badminton court. The net is set at 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high in the middle. It can be played as a singles or doubles game.

Players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball, over the net. The game begins with an underhand serve from the right-hand side of the court, aiming diagonally to the opponent's service area.

Basic Rules of Pickleball

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1. Serving: The serve must be underhand, and the server must hit the ball below waist level. The serve is made diagonally to the opposite service court and must clear the non-volley zone (often called the "kitchen").
2. Scoring: Points can only be scored by the serving team. Games are typically played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least 2 points.
3. Double Bounce Rule: After the serve, each side must let the ball bounce once before volleys are allowed. This rule ensures longer rallies and reduces the advantage of the serving team.
4. Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen): Players cannot volley the ball (hit it out of the air) while standing in the non-volley zone, which extends 7 feet from each side of the net. This rule prevents aggressive net play.

The Pickleball Craze

The popularity of pickleball has surged in recent years, becoming one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States and beyond. Its appeal lies in its accessibility—people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy it. The social aspect of the game, combined with its easy-to-learn rules and minimal equipment requirements, makes it a favorite pastime in communities, schools, and recreation centers.

Moreover, pickleball's low-impact nature is particularly appealing to older adults, providing a fun way to stay active without the strain of high-impact sports. Tournaments and organized leagues have sprung up, fostering a competitive spirit and a sense of community among players.

Pickleball's unique blend of simplicity, excitement, and social interaction has made it a beloved sport for many. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a way to stay fit, or a fun activity to enjoy with friends and family, pickleball offers something for everyone.

I'm Nathan Derry with JohnHart Real Estate, encouraging you to grab a paddle and join in the pickleball fun!  Enjoy the game and happy playing!

All the best,

Nathan Derry, Realtor

📍JohnHart Real Estate

📞(424) 303-0440

📧 nathan@jhagents.com

👨🏽‍💻 itsnathanderry.com

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