Ready to Try Pickleball?

Contributed by Trish Gau, The Hive Overland Park

Did you know that Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America? It has taken the recreation scene by storm, drawing players of all ages and skill levels to its fast-paced and friendly courts. It offers a unique blend of skill, strategy, and social interaction that makes it an ideal sport to pick up. Whether you've never played before or you are like me and play for a few months, stop and then feel like you are starting over once a year, it really is not difficult to become a fan!

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What is Pickleball? Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is typically played on a rectangular court with a net, using a lightweight paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The game can be played in singles or doubles. Courts are sprouting up everywhere from private yards to local parks to fabulous entertainment and eating venues.

Court Setup and Rules Before you hit the court, it's good to understand the basic layout and rules of pickleball. The court is divided into sections, with specific lines indicating the boundaries for singles and doubles play. The section of court closest to the net is called the Kitchen. You can only hit from the kitchen after your ball bounces in it and the back line of the kitchen is out in a serve. The serve, scoring system, and fault rules are unique to pickleball, so take the time to familiarize yourself with them before playing (official rules). One difference is when stating the score before each serve, the player announces their score, their opponent's score and their player number. It takes a minute to get used to this but don't be afraid to ask more experienced players for guidance – the pickleball community is known for its welcoming nature:).

Gear Up for Success Many sporting goods stores offer demo paddles, allowing you to try before you buy or you can usually rent or borrow balls and paddles from most pickleball facilities. As you progress, you will figure out which type of paddle you like the best - they range in price from affordable to very expensive! Comfortable, supportive court shoes are also helpful, especially to prevent injury to our middle-stage bodies. Some people wear protective eyewear as well. Any athletic, easy-to-move-in clothing works well for Pickleball.

Learning the Basics Pickleball is easy to pick up, but mastering the basics takes some practice. Begin with the fundamental shots – the serve, forehand, backhand, and volleys. Work on your footwork and positioning to ensure you're always ready for the next shot. Many communities offer beginner clinics or lessons, providing a structured environment for learning and improvement. Remember, patience is key – celebrate small victories and enjoy the learning process.

Get Social and Join the Community One of the best aspects of pickleball is its social nature. Many facilities have "Open Play" where you pay a small fee and then add your paddle to a stack and play with different people every game. It's a lot of fun and a great way to meet new people of all ages. The camaraderie on and off the court is a significant part of what makes pickleball so addictive.

Pickleball is a great activity for women in the middle-stage so grab a paddle, hit the courts, and enjoy the thrill of pickleball – the sport that's capturing the hearts of players around the world!

What are your thoughts on Pickleball? Let us know in the comments below!