Court Etiquette Etiquette:

Pickleball is a very fun sport! It can provides endless amounts of fun for all ages and skill levels. However, when someone allows the game to take precedence over relationships on the court, the game can quickly be no fun for anyone. Below are 15 reminders for good court etiquette that will keep the game fun for all.

1. At the beginning of the game introduce yourself, if not familiar with your partner or other players.

2. Call a fault upon yourself or team, if you or your partner land in the NVZ (kitchen) on a volley. Be cautious to call kitchen or foot faults on your opponents – let them call their own foot faults.

3. When you are playing in a recreational match, be sure to include weaker players as opportunities allow – they will be thrilled to have the experience!

4. Remember if a stronger player is on the court with you, hit to them and often – it will make you a better player plus keep the game interesting for all who are playing. If you are playing with weaker players work on shots that they can return and use to grow their game.

5. If playing against mixed partners be courteous and consider weaker players, older/younger players, male female players before slamming the ball at an opponent.

6. Once your game is finished, call out “Court” so the next group waiting knows a court is now available.

7. If the play type is Social Play – you do not get to play with your buddies 100% of the time, share the fun!

8. If the play type is by rotation (bench positions, paddle in box, board sign-up) or by Skill Level, understand and follow the group process being organized.

9. Unsolicited coaching on the court is not to be done. If someone is new or asks for your input, do so briefly being mindful of the flow of the game, it is best to instruct on a specified court and be invited to give feedback.

10. When a ball is out of bounds, call “out” loudly, as well as using a hand signal with your hand/arm pointing up.

11. When courts are busy and you are on deck, have your teammates and opposing team ready to move quickly to an open court.

12. Before serving the ball, be sure to call out the score loudly enough for all the players on your court to hear.

13. Before serving the ball, be sure to check the receiving player to insure they are ready to receive the serve.

14. You and your partner are responsible for all line calls on your side of the court. The other side of the court is not your responsibility and you should respect the line calls made by your opponents.

15. If you or your partner did not see the ball bounce in or out, on your side of the court, always presume the ball to have been IN.

Need more information on the rules of the game? See our rules page for simple instructions on how to get started.