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Pickleball on tennis court: Craze of 2022 and Beyond….
Pickleball on tennis court? The intriguing paddle sport that fuses badminton, tennis, and table tennis, has become an overnight sensation, captivating players of all ages and fitness levels. But what’s the real secret behind its meteoric rise in 2022 and its continued surge in popularity through 2023? Delve into the world of pickleball, where controversy, excitement, and curiosity abound, and discover why millions are joining this extraordinary sporting revolution!
Who Invented Pickleball ?
Invented in 1965 by three fathers on Bainbridge Island, Washington, the game was originally created as a fun activity for their children. However, its simple rules, affordable equipment, and social nature have contributed to its widespread popularity, making it a sport for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Why Pickleball is So Popular ?
Several things contribute to pickleball’s popularity.:
- Ease of Learning: Pickleball has straightforward rules, making it easy for beginners to grasp the fundamentals quickly. This accessibility has drawn many newcomers to the sport.
- Low-Impact Activity: The game’s low-impact nature is gentle on the joints, making it suitable for people with varying levels of fitness and age groups.
- Social Community: Pickleball is more than just a sport; it fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among players of different skill levels.
The Growing Popularity of Pickleball
Over the years, pickleball’s popularity has surged exponentially. In 2021, the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) reported an astounding 4.1 million pickleball players in the United States alone. The upward trend in participation shows no signs of slowing down, with the sport becoming a favorite pastime for countless enthusiasts.
How Big is a Pickleball court Dimensions
A typical pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, with a net that is 36 inches high in the middle and 34 inches high on either side. Pickleball can also be played on a tennis court that has been repurposed with specific markings, allowing both sports to share the same space. Explore the exciting world of pickleball on a tennis court and how this innovative approach is making it possible for two sports to coexist in one space.
Finding Pickleball Courts Near You
Finding a pickleball court near your location is easier than you might think. A simple online search or reaching out to your local parks and recreation department can help you identify nearby courts. Additionally, pickleball clubs and organizations are valuable resources for finding courts and connecting with other players.
How to Play Pickleball: The Basics
Lets learn the fundamental pickleball guidelines before you enter the court::
- Number of Players: Pickleball can be played by two or four players.
- Serving: Players must serve from the right side of the court, using an underhand motion to bounce the ball on their side and then the opponent’s side.
- Volleying: In the non-volley zone (NVZ), players are allowed to volley the ball (hit it before it bounces). However, volleying outside the NVZ is prohibited.
- Scoring: A point is earned when the opponent fails to return the ball inbounds.
Essential Tips for Playing Pickleball
To improve your pickleball game, consider the following tips:
- Focus on the Ball: Keep your eyes on the ball at all times to anticipate its trajectory accurately.
- Smooth Motion: Use a fluid and smooth motion when hitting the ball, ensuring better control and accuracy.
- Follow Through: Maintain proper follow-through with your swing for more powerful shots.
- Patience and Resilience: It’s natural not to win every point; stay patient and remain positive throughout the game.
The Five Rules of Pickleball
Recapping the five fundamental rules of pickleball:
- The ball must bounce once on your side of the court before volleying.
- The ball must bounce once on the opponent’s side before volleying in the non-volley zone (NVZ).
- The ball must be hit underhand.
- The serve must originate from behind the baseline and land in the opponent’s service box.
- A point is scored when the opponent fails to return the ball inbounds.
How to Play Pickleball on a Tennis Court
For those with access to a tennis court, pickleball can be adapted to the existing space. Simply adjust the dimensions, setting the non-volley zone (NVZ) at 7 feet on each side of the net and the service line at 10 feet from the net.
Playing Pickleball Singles
Pickleball can be enjoyed as singles or doubles. For singles play, the rules remain the same as in doubles, with only a couple of differences. In singles, the serve alternates sides after each point, and there is no non-volley zone (NVZ), allowing players to volley from anywhere on the court.
Playing Pickleball with Two Players
Playing pickleball with only two players, known as “pickleball doubles,” is also an option. In this case, the non-volley zone (NVZ) is reduced to 3 feet on each side of the net, and there is no service line. Players have the freedom to serve from anywhere behind the baseline.
Additional Help and Resources for Exploring Pickleball
If you’re eager to explore more about pickleball, there are plenty of resources available:
- Online Tutorials and Videos: Look for instructional videos and tutorials on pickleball techniques and strategies.
- Local Clubs and Organizations: Join a local pickleball club or organization to connect with fellow enthusiasts and participate in regular games and tournaments.
- Pickleball Community Events: Check for community events or tournaments that offer a chance to play pickleball and meet other players.
- Coaching and Lessons: Consider taking lessons from experienced pickleball coaches to improve your skills.
- Online Forums and Social Media Groups: Engage with the pickleball community through online forums and social media groups to share experiences and learn from others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pickleball is an incredibly fun and social paddle sport that has captured the hearts of millions. Its easy-to-learn nature, low-impact characteristics, and sense of community have contributed to its rapid rise in popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner looking for a new activity, pickleball is an excellent choice. Embrace the sport, find your local court, and start enjoying the thrill of pickleball !!
Here are some popular online links for pickleball tournaments, training, etc:
- USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) : The official governing body of pickleball in the United States. The USAPA website has a wealth of information on the sport, including rules, regulations, tournaments, and training resources.
- Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) : A professional pickleball organization that hosts tournaments and events around the world. The PPA website has a schedule of upcoming tournaments, as well as information on how to become a professional pickleball player.
- PickleballTournaments.com : A website that lists pickleball tournaments around the world. This is a great resource for finding tournaments in your area.
- Pickleball Central : A website that offers pickleball lessons, drills, and training resources. Pickleball Central is a great place to learn the basics of the sport or improve your skills.
- Pickleball University : A website that offers online pickleball courses and tutorials. Pickleball University is a great resource for learning about the sport at your own pace.
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