Pickleball walks a casual middle ground between several other well-known sports, but the game is only recently finding its legs in cities around the U.S. If you recently learned about this sport, you undoubtedly have questions. Here are the answers to three frequently asked questions about pickleball to help you get started with this exciting activity.
What Is Pickleball Anyway?
Pickleball is an odd mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. The sport incorporates each to create a low-impact game that’s easy to pick up and play.
Originally thought up in 1965 by Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell, pickleball was invented to make use of a badminton court when the proper equipment wasn’t on hand. The origin of the sport’s name is still up for debate, but many believe the game is named after Pritchard’s dog, Pickles.
Can You Play Pickleball on a Tennis Court?
Among the most frequently asked questions about pickleball is whether you can play on a tennis court. Due in part to the sport’s comparatively young age, finding a court dedicated solely to pickleball isn’t always possible. Fortunately for fans of the game, pickleball is easy to play on a tennis court with a few minor changes.
Players either play using a tennis net and stay within boundaries or bring in a portable pickleball net as a standard-conforming alternative. A tennis court is nearly double the size of a pickleball court, but with the permission of the court owners, tape or chalk are easy, non-permanent ways to measure out a proper court. In fact, four pickleball courts can fit inside a single tennis court with enough nets on hand!
What Do You Need To Play Pickleball?
Pickleball, like tennis, doesn’t require a significant amount of equipment. A net, at least two paddles, and a pickleball are enough to play. However, spare balls, portable nets, post sleeves, and even pickleball gloves improve the play experience and allow you to take the sport anywhere.
At All Star Tennis Supply, we’re happy to help you find the pickleball supplies and equipment you need to start playing. We carry what you need to set up a new court or upgrade a well-used one from scoring signs to high-quality nets. Feel free to reach out to us so we can help you get set up today!