About Pickleball
Invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, USA, pickleball is now one of the fastest-growing sports around the world.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a fast-paced, easy-to-learn paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Played on a court measuring 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, the same size as a doubles badminton court, it features a lightweight paddle and plastic ball. Its compact size and unique rules make it a favourite among players of all ages and skill levels.
The game is most commonly played in doubles but works equally well for singles. Serves are underhand and volleys (hitting the ball before it bounces) are only allowed outside the non-volley zone, known as the “kitchen.” In traditional scoring, points are scored only by the serving team, and games are played to 11, requiring a two-point lead to win.
Key strategies include “dinking”—soft, controlled shots that land just over the net—and maintaining a strong position at the net to excel in firefights, the rapid back-and-forth volley exchanges.
What Makes Pickleball So Popular?
Pickleball is taking off across the world, including here in Ireland, because it offers something for everyone. The game is fast-paced and highly competitive for those who love a challenge, but its court size (smaller than tennis) and light-weight ball make it accessible for players of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re looking for serious competition or just a fun way to connect with others, pickleball delivers.
Pickleball in Ireland
Pickleball is taking off in Ireland! Local clubs are popping up across the country, creating vibrant communities of players who share a love for the sport. Schools are starting to include pickleball in their PE programs, introducing kids to the game at an early age. Ireland is also making its mark on the competitive stage, with talented players representing their club and country in tournaments around the world.
For more information about pickleball in Ireland, and to find your local club, visit pickleballireland.org.
Pickleball Terms
Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone): A 7-foot area near the net where players cannot volley the ball.
Dink: A soft shot landing just over the net that helps control the pace of play.
Third Shot Drop: A soft shot aimed at the kitchen to neutralize the opponents’ advantage.
Around the Post (ATP): A shot hit around the net post without crossing over it.
Lob: A high shot pushing opponents back to the baseline.
Erne: A volley taken by stepping outside the sideline near the net.
Drive: A fast, powerful shot designed to put pressure on opponents.
Volley: Hitting the ball in the air before it bounces.
Reset: A defensive shot that aims to slow down a rally by returning the ball to the kitchen.
Serve: The underhand shot used to start a point.
Fault: A rule violation that stops play, such as hitting the ball out or stepping into the kitchen on a volley.