Pickleball

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes in it. The court is smaller than a tennis court, so it is easy for kids to play.

How to Play

Pickleball is played on a court that looks like a small tennis court. Players use solid paddles to hit a lightweight ball over a net. You can play with two players or four players.

The ball is served underhand. It must bounce once on each side before players can hit it out of the air. There is a zone near the net called the "kitchen" where you cannot hit the ball in the air. Points are scored only by the serving team.

Why It Is So Popular

Pickleball is easy to learn and fun for all ages. The court is small, so you do not have to run as far as in tennis. The ball moves slower, so beginners can rally right away.

The sport was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island near Seattle. A few families made it up to keep their kids entertained. Now millions of people play pickleball in parks, gyms, and community centers all over the country.

Fun Facts

• Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three dads who wanted to keep their kids busy.
• The sport may have been named after a dog called Pickles, but the story is debated.
• Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America.

Did You Know?

Some people say pickleball got its name from a family dog named Pickles who loved to chase the ball!