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What is pickleball?

Blog
The YPO Team
19 Jun 2025

You may have heard of the sport widely gaining popularity throughout the UK, but what actually is Pickleball? Here at YPO we love the activity and just had to tell you more about the basics of how it’s played, the equipment you’ll need and most importantly the skills it can teach children!

When was Pickleball created?

Created on Bainbridge Island, Washington in the United States by two friends and first played in 1965, the game is a low impact racket sport.

Bill Bell and Joel Pritchard were at Joel’s home which had a badminton court in the garden and were looking for a game to play with their families. They could not find enough badminton equipment so instead picked up some ping pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball. The badminton net was lowered to 36 inches and their friend Barney McCallum joined the pair. The three friends then worked on developing the rules of pickleball - a game that can be played with the whole family!

Fun fact: on the 28th March 2022 Pickleball was named the official state sport of Washington!

Why is it called Pickleball?

The most commonly believed theory is that Joan Pritchard (the wife of one of the creators Joel) named the sport after the term “pickle boat”. A pickle boat is a crew boat made up of leftover rowers who weren’t picked for a main team. Joan said she picked this name as the term reminded her of their new sport made up of leftover equipment.

Another theory is that the game was named after the Pritchard family’s pet dog who was called Pickles. Apparently Pickles would get excited and chase the ball during games, which people believed was the reason for the name. This theory was however debunked as Pickles wasn’t adopted until after the game was already named as Pickleball.

How many people can play Pickleball?

Pickleball can be played in both singles and doubles format. This means that a minimum of two or maximum of four players can take part at once. When playing singles, you and your opponent are responsible for covering your entire side of the court, whereas when playing doubles your team share the responsibility.

Child readying to make a serve during a pickleball match

Where do you play Pickleball?

Able to be played both indoors and outdoors, the game takes place on a badminton sized court (20 feet wide x 44 feet long) which features a non-volley zone (NVZ). If you have a badminton court available to use at your school or nearby, simply swap the net for a pickleball one. Don’t worry though, all you need is a net, some paddles and a ball and you’re good to go - the Pickleball United Starter Pack is a great choice!

What equipment is needed to play Pickleball?

Played with a smooth faced paddle and a hollow perforated ball, the game contains elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong. With a standard net height of 34 to 36 inches, it is lower than one used during badminton or tennis which is ideal for children and the elderly. Our pickleball driveway net can be assembled in minutes and used both indoors and outdoors.

The ball used also travels slower than a tennis ball, allowing for more time to ready your serve. We stock a range of balls, specially selected so that there is an option for everyone depending on where you are playing. With balls for indoor use, outdoor use and tournament play available, our selection is sure to have just what you’re looking for.

Child holding a pickleball paddle and ball

How do I choose a Pickleball paddle?

There are different types of paddles available to use during play depending on your level. We stock multiple paddles that are designed for different user needs and abilities.

Pickleball United All Round Paddle - This is an entry level paddle. Perfect for those just starting out or looking for an all round paddle, it is made with a cork core which is lightweight and allows for superior control.

Pickleball United Freedom Paddle - This is an ideal choice for those looking to improve their skills. The graphite face provides control and power, while the honeycomb polymer core ensures the paddle is still lightweight. Its shape and size also allow for increased accuracy thanks to the larger sweet spot.

Pickleball United Power Drive Paddle - This paddle is perfect for confident players who are looking for additional power. Made with perforated high density cork and a honeycomb structure, the paddle is extra light allowing for effortless movement. The 7 ply wood skin gives the paddle an extra punch, meaning you can serve and return powerful drives.

What are the rules of Pickleball?

Only the serving team can gain points, and a team wins by scoring 11 points and maintaining a lead of two. The server is always on the right hand side of the court, and a serve is made underhand and diagonally with the aim to hit the opposite side of the court. You are allowed one attempt and if you fault the ball goes to your teammate if in a doubles match or to the opposition if you’re playing singles.

Once served, the opposing player(s) need to let it bounce once before returning it. When the ball has bounced in both sides of the court one time, you can then volley the ball - this is called the double-bounce rule. This rule only reapplies when a fault occurs and you have to serve again.

Boy hitting a pickleball

What skills does it teach?

This exciting game teaches children plenty of skills including teamwork, hand-eye coordination, strategy and perseverance as well as building motor skills. Students will love practising their serves and developing their knowledge of the sport during PE lessons. With indoor and outdoor pickleball sets available, you can equip your school with the equipment needed and play the game in your sports hall or the great outdoors.

Take a look at our full range of pickleball supplies and start your journey of mastering the sport today!

Author

The YPO Team

YPO supplies products and services to a wide range of customers including schools, local authorities, charities, emergency services, public sector and other businesses such as nurseries and care homes. YPO are 100% publicly owned, by 13 local authorities, which means the profits made are returned to public sector customers, delivering even better value for money.