Pickleball Etiquette

Pickleball etiquette ensures that games are enjoyable, respectful, and fair for everyone.

Before the Game

1. Greet Opponents: Introduce yourself or exchange friendly words before starting.

2. Warm-Up Together: Share the court and allow everyone to practice equally.

3. Equipment Ready: Bring your paddle, balls, and water, and ensure you’re ready when it’s your turn to play.

During the Game

1. Call the Score Clearly: The serving player should call the score loudly before each serve.

2. Be Honest with Calls: Make line calls fairly and give opponents the benefit of the doubt on close shots.

3. Respect the Server: Wait until everyone is ready before serving.

4. Avoid Distractions: Don’t make noise or move behind the court while others are playing.

5. Errant Balls: If a ball enters your court during play, call ball and return the ball to the player on the other court.

Court Courtesy

1. Wait to Enter: Do not walk onto or behind, or beside a court in play. Wait until the point is over to retrieve balls or cross a court.

2. Apologize for Nets & Errors: If your ball accidentally goes into another court, say “sorry” and retrieve it politely.

3. Communicate: Work with your partner to avoid confusion and collisions during play.

Winning and Losing

1. Be Gracious: Always congratulate your opponents after the game, win or lose.

2. Rotate Quickly: If others are waiting to play, vacate the court promptly after your game.

Social Play

1. Encourage Beginners: Be patient and supportive with less experienced players.

2. Be Inclusive: Rotate players in and out fairly, especially in club settings.

3. Keep it Friendly: Avoid overly competitive behavior in casual games.