Pickleball Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts on the Court
Ever wonder why professional pickleball players like Ben Johns, Tyson McGuffin, Anna Leigh Waters, and Lucy Kanakova are successful in the sport? Of course, because they’re great at the sport, but besides that, they are also good sports. Being successful in the sport means you have to build connections. Remember that there is a doubles division in pickleball so you would need a partner, and no one wants to partner or even play with rude players.
Just like with any other sport, pickleball has some (unspoken) etiquette that you need to follow. Pickleball is a social game so it would require you to interact with other players. Everybody loves a good sport that respects everyone, and no one wants to play with sore losers. If you’re worried about offending anyone while playing, here are some dos and don'ts to guide you.
Be a Sport
Be respectful
ALL. THE. TIME.
This is pretty self-explanatory and applies to our everyday lives. Be polite and treat everyone with respect. If you disagree with anyone, civilly talk to them. There’s no need to be a (bleep) if there are problems. Any issue can be resolved if everyone stays calm and talks properly with everyone else.
Always use clean words when communicating with anyone. Pickleball is a fun game for everyone. There’s no need for trash talks and harsh language.
Greet Other Players
It’s always polite to acknowledge or greet other players. If you already know them, a simple smile, nod, or greeting can make the game better. If you don’t know them, don’t be shy to introduce yourself. After all, this is a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Play with Other Skill Levels
Whether you’re a newbie or a skilled player, play with anyone. Pickleball is inclusive of anyone from any skill level. Of course, if you prefer to play with others of your skill set, that’s fine. It just creates more opportunities for you if you play with other skill levels. Beginners get to learn more while experts can teach and impart their knowledge and experience.
If you’re an advanced player playing with a beginner, consider dialing down your moves to help the newbie keep up. There’s no harm in letting them play shots and this makes the game more enjoyable This can be a good teaching opportunity for you and help them get more experience. If you’re a beginner, don’t forget to thank the expert for being a good sport and giving you opportunities to be better.
Respect the Paddle Holder
Most of the time, players place their paddles in the paddle holder to determine who will play next. If you’re a beginner, you might not know this or be confused. It’s good to learn about this before playing, but if you’re still confused when you’re already at the court, don’t be afraid to ask the regulars. They’ll be more than happy to help you.
Call Outs
If you commit any fault like stepping on the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) during a volley or the ball was out, call it out. Whether your opponent saw it or not, be honest and call it out. If you’re uncertain whether it’s a fault or not, give your opponent the benefit of the doubt and let them call it. Likewise, if your opponent is uncertain and asks you, observe it properly and be honest with your decision.
Respecting the Ball
Whether you’re playing in outdoor or indoor pickleball courts, respecting the ball is important. Just because no one else can see, doesn’t mean it’s not wrong. Remember that cheating doesn’t get you success and all lies get revealed eventually.
Ball Ownership
If you find any stray balls, look for their rightful owner. It can be tempting to switch your (worn-out) balls with a new one but just don’t. Be honest. Look for the right owner and return them.
Safe Ball Return
If a stray ball comes to your court from another court, don’t just pick it up and throw it back. The other players might be in the middle of a game and suddenly throwing the ball without warning may cause an accident. Wait for the other players to notice you and safely roll the ball towards their court.
Call Out Stray Balls
When your ball goes to another court, call out the other players’ attention to let them know about the stray ball. Stray balls may cause accidents and injuries if someone steps on them. Don’t be embarrassed and alert them. You wouldn’t want to step on another player’s stray ball right? So do them the same courtesy you expect from them.
Always wear appropriate pickleball clothes and invest in quality pickleball paddles. If you’re new, you can try pickleball paddles for beginners like the SLK paddles. If you’re an expert, the best pickleball paddles for advanced players are Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta and Diadem Edge 18K.
If you want a paddle that’s suitable for beginners to experts, choose 101 Pickleball’s Zen Control.
Pickleball Etiquette FAQs: Your Guide to Court Conduct
1. Why is pickleball etiquette important?
Pickleball etiquette is crucial for fostering a positive and enjoyable atmosphere on the court. It promotes sportsmanship, encourages camaraderie among players, and ensures a respectful environment. Good etiquette can enhance your overall experience and help you build lasting friendships with other players. When players exhibit good sportsmanship, it minimizes conflicts and creates a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and seasoned players alike.
2. How should I greet other players before a game?
Acknowledging fellow players is a fundamental aspect of pickleball etiquette. A simple smile, nod, or verbal greeting can set a positive tone for the game. If you're playing with someone new, don’t hesitate to introduce yourself. This not only fosters good relations but also helps create a friendly environment where everyone feels included and valued, making the game more enjoyable for all.
3. What should I do if I witness a fault during play?
If you notice a fault, such as an opponent stepping into the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) or hitting the ball out, it’s your responsibility to call it out. Honesty is paramount in pickleball; whether your opponent saw the fault or not, being forthright helps maintain the integrity of the game. If you're unsure, give your opponent the benefit of the doubt. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and promotes fairness on the court.
4. How should I handle stray balls during a game?
If a ball rolls into your court from another game, wait for the players to acknowledge you before returning it. Simply picking it up and tossing it back can disrupt their game and lead to accidents. Instead, roll the ball back safely when it’s appropriate. Similarly, if your ball strays into another court, alert the players to its presence before retrieving it. This consideration prevents injuries and ensures a smooth flow of play for everyone involved.
5. Can I play with players of different skill levels?
Absolutely! Playing with individuals of varying skill levels enriches the game. Beginners can learn valuable techniques from experienced players, while advanced players can refine their coaching skills. If you're a seasoned player, consider adjusting your game to accommodate less experienced players, allowing them to enjoy the experience and develop their skills. Always express gratitude to advanced players for their guidance and support—this builds goodwill on and off the court.
6. What should I do if I have a disagreement with another player?
Disagreements can happen in any sport, but how you handle them matters. Approach the situation calmly and respectfully; communicate openly to resolve the issue without escalating tensions. Use polite language and avoid confrontational behavior. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the game and maintain a positive atmosphere. Most conflicts can be settled amicably through a respectful conversation.
7. How can I ensure I’m wearing appropriate attire for pickleball?
Wearing suitable clothing enhances your comfort and performance on the court. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that allow for a full range of motion. It’s also wise to invest in quality pickleball shoes that provide the necessary support and grip for quick movements. Avoid attire that could be distracting or inappropriate. When you look and feel your best, you contribute to a positive game environment and set a standard for others on the court.