Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played on a court similar in size to a badminton court with a net that is lower than a tennis net. The game is typically played with a plastic ball and paddles made of wood or composite materials.
The origins of pickleball can be traced back to the summer of 1965 when three friends – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum – were looking for a new game to play with their families. They had grown bored with the usual lawn games like badminton and wanted something new and exciting.
The trio decided to combine elements of different games to create something new. They started by using a badminton net, a perforated plastic ball, and paddles that were similar to those used in ping pong. The court was roughly the size of a badminton court, and they used the lines of the badminton court as a guide.
When they played their new game for the first time, they quickly realized that the ball bounced a lot and was hard to hit with precision. Pritchard’s wife, Joan, suggested calling the game “pickleball” after the term used in rowing to describe a boat that is a mix of different types.
From there, the game took off in popularity, particularly among older adults who enjoyed the low-impact nature of the game. Tournaments began to be held, and the game was played all over the country.
In the decades that followed, pickleball continued to grow in popularity, particularly in retirement communities and among seniors. The rules of the game were refined and standardized, and it became an official sport with national and international governing bodies.
Today, pickleball is played by millions of people of all ages around the world. It is a fun and engaging sport that promotes fitness, socialization, and healthy competition. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to learn and enjoy about this fantastic game!