Beginner Pickleball
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Learn to play the fast growing sport with the funny name.
Have you ever played ping-pong, tennis, racquetball, badminton?
Whether you played a “few” years ago, yesterday or never, pickleball is the sport for you.
• You will be taught to play in a non-judgmental environment. All ages/abilities welcome.
• Intro will cover the basic rules of play, strokes, strategies and court etiquette.
• The court is about half the size of a tennis court (with a net) and usually played “doubles” or mixed-gender doubles.
• You will use a paddle a little bigger than a ping-pong paddle and a whiffle type ball. (Equipment supplied by the Rec Dept.)
• This is good opportunity to get some exercise, learn a “new” sport, and meet new energetic friends.
Wear court shoes and comfortable loose clothing, suitable for exercising.
Bring water…smiles…and enthusiasm….It’s a fun game!!
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport played with a whiffle ball on a badminton-sized court and a tennis-style net. A non-volley zone (or kitchen) prevents volleys close to the net, and the serving team cannot volley the return of serve. These unique rules favor players with less mobility and allow senior players to compete successfully with younger competitors.
Pickleball is enjoyed by people of all ages and athletic abilities thanks to its ease of play and straightforward rules. The sport is inexpensive, social and healthy, and has been widely accepted in school gyms, fire stations, community centers, local parks, athletic clubs and thousands of backyard sports courts. In some ways it’s a combination of tennis and badminton, and along with sports such as table tennis and racquetball, pickleball has exploded in popularity. Thousands of pickleball courts have been built in recent years, especially in senior communities.
These areas have benefited from increased comradery amid peers since both doubles and singles can be played. Doubles involve longer rallies, lower physical demands and more opportunities for court banter. Though easy to learn, pickleball provides endless opportunity for individual improvement and learning subtle techniques. Many players who initially dismiss the sport as amateurish, simplistic or noisy now find it addicting. Like golf, many fans play several hours a day either indoors or outdoors.
Pickleball’s requirements are fairly minimal when it comes to equipment. Paddle faces are made of wood, composites or graphite. Overall, paddles are roughly 8” wide and 15” long with hard, smooth surfaces. Balls are made of hard plastic with holes and are similar in size to baseballs. Nets are 34” high in the center. Courts are 20 feet wide and 40’ long. Four pickleball courts can fit in the same area used for a single tennis court.
Pickleball is an inclusive, accessible, non-elitist sport that transcends social and economic barriers. Playing styles vary widely, even at the highest levels. Many top players have no past racquet or paddle sport experience and have limited athletic abilities. Pickleball is easy to begin but difficult to master. Grab a paddle and give it a try!
Ruane Crummett, Pickleball Bio
I was introduced to the game of pickleball 7 years ago while vacationing in Florida. I was “hooked” immediately and became a student of the sport. As I gained experience, friends and players alike asked me for help and advice at a beginner level. I have since become a certified USA Pickleball Instructor and teach beginner and intermediate level in Metro West, including Newton, Wellesley, Belmont and Woburn. I am also a certified Level 1 USA Pickleball referee. I have competed and medaled in regional and local tournaments, including, gold in the Inaugural MA Bay State Games, N.H., RI and MA Senior games.
I impart patience, knowledge of the game, rules, and encouragement to all my students. Many continue to learn and play pickleball at a recreational (friendly/fun) and/or tournament level.
I always look forward to sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm and helping “new players” get started in the sport/game of pickleball.
It’s a fun game….so play and smile!!