Dos and Don’ts of Pickleball Court Etiquette

“Sportsmanship for me is when a guy walks off the court and you really can't tell whether he won or lost, when he carries himself with pride either way.” – Jim Courier

Pickleball, with its fast-paced action and friendly competition, has become a beloved sport for many around the world. However, like any sport, it comes with its own set of written and unwritten rules to ensure everyone enjoys their time on the court. Here’s a quick guide to pickleball court etiquette to help you and your fellow players have the best experience possible.

1. Respect the Space

Maintaining a clean and functional court is essential for the enjoyment and safety of all players. Your responsibility goes beyond just playing the game—it’s also about ensuring the space is ready for the next players.

• Do: If it’s an outdoor court, always ensure the court is dry before playing. Use a squeegee or broom to remove any rain puddles and check that the nets are pulled taut.
• Don’t: Never leave personal belongings scattered around the court. Keep your gear organized and out of the way of gameplay.

2. Communication is Key

Clear communication is the backbone of any smooth pickleball game. It prevents misunderstandings and fosters a cooperative, friendly atmosphere on the court.

• Do: When serving, clearly call out the score before each serve. This helps avoid confusion and keeps the game flowing smoothly. Always communicate with your partner, especially when the ball is played down the middle.
• Don’t: Don’t argue over line calls. If there’s a disagreement, give your opponent the benefit of the doubt.

3. Wait Your Turn

Patience and respect for others’ time on the court are crucial. Whether you’re playing or waiting, understanding the flow of the game and respecting others’ turns helps ensure a positive experience for everyone.

• Do: Wait for the current game to finish before stepping onto the court. It’s polite to remain outside the court boundaries until the game is over.
• Don’t: Never interrupt a game to ask when it will end or cross through the court during active play. Wait until the play stops.

4. Respect the Rally

During a rally, players are focused and concentrated. It’s essential to minimize interruptions and be mindful of ongoing play to maintain the game’s flow and intensity.

• Do: Wait until the rally is over before retrieving a ball that has rolled onto another court. Politely ask for it back or wait for the players to return it. Give them enough space to finish their rally without distraction.
• Don’t: Don’t chase a ball onto another court while a point is in progress, or instruct the players to stop. It can be disruptive and dangerous.

5. Good Sportsmanship

Good sportsmanship is the heart of any sport, and pickleball is no exception. Respect and appreciation for your fellow players—whether they’re your teammates or opponents—create a positive and supportive community.

• Do: Congratulate your opponents on good shots and games. A simple “good game” goes a long way. Encourage and support your partner, especially after a mistake. Positive reinforcement builds team strength.
• Don’t: Don’t show frustration or anger on the court. It creates a negative atmosphere and can be discouraging for others.

6. Keep the Noise Down

Noise levels can greatly affect the enjoyment and focus of the game. Being mindful of your volume and maintaining respectful noise levels ensures that everyone can concentrate and enjoy their time on the court.

• Do: Keep conversations at a respectful volume while on the court. Excessive noise can be distracting to other players. If you need to communicate during a game, do so quickly and quietly.
• Don’t: Avoid loud conversations or activities near the courts. It can be distracting to players in nearby games.

7. Play Fair and Safe

Safety and fairness should be at the forefront of every pickleball game. Adhering to the rules and being considerate of others helps prevent injuries and ensures a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone.

• Do: Follow the official rules of pickleball to ensure a fair game for everyone. Be mindful of your movements to avoid collisions and injuries. Safety should always be your top priority.
• Don’t: Never attempt risky or reckless shots that could potentially harm other players. Play within your skill level to maintain safety.

Game Point

By adhering to proper pickleball court etiquette, you help create a positive, friendly, and respectful environment for everyone to enjoy the game. Following these simple guidelines ensures a better experience for you and your fellow players.

See you on the courts!