Pickleball is a fun and engaging sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.

Here are some key rules to keep in mind:

 

1. Court: Pickleball is typically played on a badminton-sized court with a low net. The court is divided into left and right service courts and a non-volley zone (or "kitchen") near the net.

 

2. Serving: The serving team must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball underhand into the diagonally opposite service court. The serve must clear the non-volley zone and land in the opposing service court.

 

3. Scoring: Pickleball is usually played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least 2 points. Only the serving team can score points.

 

4. Double Bounce Rule: After the serve, both teams must let the ball bounce once before hitting it. After the second bounce, the ball can be volleyed (hit before it bounces) as long as it is done outside the non-volley zone.

 

5. Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen): Players are not allowed to volley the ball while standing in the non-volley zone, which is the area immediately in front of the net. This rule prevents players from getting too close to the net and promotes longer rallies.

 

6. Faults: Common faults in pickleball include serving out of turn, stepping into the non-volley zone to volley the ball, and hitting the ball out of bounds. These result in the loss of the serve or a point for the opposing team.

 

7. Let Serves: In casual play, let serves, which are serves that hit the net and land in the correct service court, are often allowed and do not count as faults.

 

8. Doubles Play: Pickleball is commonly played in doubles, with each team consisting of two players. 

 

9. Line Calls: Pickleball relies on honesty and good sportsmanship. Players are responsible for making line calls and resolving disputes on the court. 

 

Above all, enjoy the game, stay active, and have fun on the pickleball court!