Pickleball starts by determining the first serving side through local rules or a coin toss, with the player on the right side of the court serving first. The server must serve underhanded to the diagonal side of the court.
Introducing Pickleball: A Beginner’s Guide to the Popular Sport Are you looking to learn about the origins and rules of pickleball? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into how pickleball starts and the basic rules of the game.
Pickleball, a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has gained popularity in recent years due to its fast pace and easy-to-learn nature. With origins in Austin, Texas, the game was founded by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. Whether you are a beginner or just curious about the sport, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started with pickleball.

Understanding The Basics
Pickleball starts with determining the first serving side through local rules or a coin toss. The player on the right side of the court serves first, underhanded and to the diagonal side. Points can only be scored by the serving side.
As an avid pickleball player or someone who is curious about the sport, understanding the basics is essential. In this section, we will explore what pickleball is, the equipment and court used in the game, and the scoring system. Let’s dive in!
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is usually played on a court that is roughly the same size as a badminton court. The game is played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes, similar to a wiffle ball.
Pickleball can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a popular choice for recreational activities and competitive play.
Pickleball Equipment And Court:
To play pickleball, you will need the following equipment:
- Paddle: Pickleball paddles are typically made of wood, composite materials, or graphite. They come in different sizes and weights, allowing players to choose the one that suits their preferences.
- Ball: Pickleball balls are made of plastic and have unique hole patterns. The type of ball used may vary based on factors such as indoor or outdoor play and skill level.
- Court: A pickleball court is rectangular in shape, measuring 20 feet wide and 44 feet long for doubles play. Sometimes, the court may be modified for singles play. The court is divided into different sections, including the non-volley zone, where players are not allowed to hit the ball in the air.
Pickleball Scoring System:
Understanding the scoring system is crucial to enjoy pickleball fully. Here’s a breakdown:
- Points are only awarded to the serving side.
- Games are typically played to 11 points, but depending on local rules or preferences, they can also be played to 15 or 21 points.
- The serving team always starts the game, and the serving rotation changes with each point.
- The server must make an underhand serve and hit the ball below waist level.
- The receiving team must let the ball bounce once before returning it.
- If the serving team wins a point, they continue serving. If the receiving team wins a point, they become the serving team.
- The game continues until one team reaches the predetermined number of points and has a minimum two-point advantage.
By grasping the basics of pickleball, you are well on your way to enjoying this exciting and dynamic sport. Remember, practice makes perfect, so grab your paddle, find a court, and start playing!
Starting A Pickleball Game
To start a pickleball game, determine the first serving side either by local rules or a coin toss. The player on the right side of the court serves first, underhanded, to the diagonally opposite court.
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To start a pickleball game, there are a few key points to keep in mind. Here’s what you need to know:
Determining The Serving Side:
- Determine the first serving side by either following local rules or conducting a coin toss.
- The player on the right side of the court serves first.
Serving Technique And Rules:
When it comes to serving in pickleball, there are specific techniques and rules to follow. Here’s what you need to know:
- The player serves underhanded, either out of the air or off the bounce.
- The serve must be directed towards the diagonal side of the court.
Serving to the Diagonal Side:
- The server aims to serve the ball to the diagonal side of the court, ensuring that it lands in the service box on the opposite side of the net.
Remember, in pickleball, points are scored only on the serve. The receiving side cannot score a point. At the start of the game, the player on the right side (even court) serves to the diagonally opposite court. If a point is scored, the server moves to the left side (odd court) and serves to the diagonally opposite court.
With these rules in mind, you’re now equipped to start a pickleball game and enjoy this exciting sport!
The Pickleball Point
The Pickleball Point explores the origins of pickleball and how it all began. Discover the history behind this popular sport and how it evolved into the game enjoyed today.
Pickleball is a fun and engaging sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s a game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a popular choice for many recreational players.
But how does a pickleball game actually start? Let’s dive into the details of the pickleball point.
Scoring Points:
- Points in pickleball are only awarded to the serving side. The receiving side cannot score a point.
- The serving side begins each point with a serve, and the objective is to make a successful serve that the opponent cannot return.
- If the serving side wins the point, they continue to serve for the next point.
- If the receiving side wins the point, they earn the right to serve.
Receiving Side’S Role:
- The receiving side’s main goal is to return the serve and prevent the serving side from scoring a point.
- The receiver should anticipate where the serve will be directed and position themselves accordingly.
- It’s important for the receiver to be ready to react quickly and make a good return shot, putting pressure on the serving side.
Switching Sides:
- In pickleball, there is a rule that requires the serving side to switch sides after scoring a point.
- This ensures fairness and equal opportunities for both teams.
- After scoring a point, the server moves from the right side (even court) to the left side (odd court), and serves to the diagonally opposite court.
- The receiver also switches sides, moving from left to right or vice versa.
Understanding the pickleball point is crucial to playing the game. Knowing how points are scored, the roles of the serving and receiving sides, and the importance of switching sides can greatly enhance your pickleball experience. So get out there, serve up some fun, and enjoy the game of pickleball!

Credit: howtheyplay.com
Learning The Pickleball Etiquette
Learn the proper etiquette of playing pickleball, including how to start a game. Determine the first serving side through local rules or a coin toss, with the player on the right side serving first underhanded to the diagonal side.
Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced sport that is gaining popularity around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, learning the pickleball etiquette is crucial to enjoying the game and maintaining a positive playing environment. In this section, we will explore three important aspects of pickleball etiquette: Communication on the Court, Respecting the Non-Volley Zone, and Understanding Line Calls.
Communication On The Court:
- Use verbal cues to communicate with your partner during the game. This can include calling out who will take the shot, encouraging each other, and providing feedback.
- Signal your intentions to your partner and opponents using hand signals. This helps avoid collisions and confusion during gameplay.
- Be respectful and avoid using offensive or aggressive language on the court. Remember, pickleball is meant to be a friendly and inclusive sport.
Respecting The Non-Volley Zone:
- The non-volley zone, also known as the kitchen, is a designated area close to the net where players are not allowed to hit the ball volley-style.
- Avoid stepping into the non-volley zone unless the ball has bounced outside of it or you are retrieving a ball that has landed there.
- When volleying the ball, make sure that both feet are behind the non-volley zone line. This rule helps prevent players from getting too close to the net and disrupting the flow of the game.
Understanding Line Calls:
- Line calls in pickleball can sometimes be challenging, as players are required to make their own calls regarding whether a ball is in or out of the court.
- It is important to make honest and fair line calls. If you’re unsure about a call, it’s better to consider the ball in and continue play.
- In case of a disagreement between players regarding a line call, it is recommended to replay the point to avoid any disputes or arguments.
Learning and adhering to these pickleball etiquette rules will not only enhance your playing experience but also create a more enjoyable environment for everyone on the court. So, let’s play pickleball with respect, communication, and good sportsmanship!
Exploring The History Of Pickleball
Pickleball, a popular sport, was born in 1965 in Bainbridge Island, Washington. The game was created by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum as a way to entertain their families. It quickly gained popularity and has since become a beloved recreational activity for people of all ages.
Origins Of Pickleball:
- Pickleball was invented in the mid-1960s by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum.
- The game was initially created to entertain their families during a summer gathering on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, Washington.
- The name “pickleball” was coined after Pritchard’s dog, Pickles, who would chase after the ball and run off with it.
- The sport quickly gained popularity within their community and eventually spread to neighboring states.
Founders Of Pickleball:
- Joel Pritchard, a congressman from Washington state, played a significant role in the creation of pickleball.
- Bill Bell, a friend of Pritchard’s, helped in designing the first pickleball paddles and the original rules of the game.
- Barney McCallum, a neighbor of Pritchard, contributed to the development and promotion of pickleball.
Growth And Popularity Of The Game:
- Pickleball’s popularity grew steadily over the years due to its accessibility and easy-to-learn nature.
- The United States Pickleball Association (USAPA) was established in 1984 to govern the sport and promote its growth.
- Pickleball is now played across the United States and in many other countries around the world.
- The sport continues to attract players of all ages and skill levels, from recreational beginners to competitive athletes.
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Frequently Asked Questions On How Does Pickleball Start

How Do You Start A Pickleball Game?
To start a pickleball game, determine the serving side by local rules or a coin toss. The player on the right side of the court serves first underhanded to the diagonal side. Once a point is scored, the server moves to the left side and serves to the diagonally opposite court.
How Do You Start A Point In Pickleball?
To start a point in pickleball, determine the first serving side by local rules or coin toss. The player on the right side of the court serves first. The serve must be underhanded, either out of the air or off the bounce, to the diagonal side.
Points are scored only on the serve, and the receiving side cannot score a point. If a point is scored, the server moves to the left side and serves to the diagonally opposite court.
Why Does Pickleball Start With 0-0-2?
To start a game of pickleball, the serving team begins with a score of 0-0-2.
How Do You Know Who Starts Pickleball Game?
To start a pickleball game, the first serving side is determined by local rules or a coin toss. The player on the right side of the court serves first, underhanded, to the diagonal side.
Conclusion
Overall, starting a game of pickleball involves determining the first serving side, with the player on the right side of the court serving first. The server must serve underhanded to the diagonal side. Points are only scored on the serve, and if a point is scored, the server moves to the left side and serves to the diagonally opposite court.
The game continues with alternating serves until the end. Pickleball, originally founded by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum, has gained popularity worldwide. It is a fun and exciting sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong.
Pickleball is a game that can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels, making it a great activity for friends and families to play together. Understanding the basics of how pickleball starts is essential for any beginner looking to get started in the game.
So grab a pickleball paddle, find a court, and enjoy the thrill of this fast-growing sport!