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Hey Picklebackers! 🏓✨

Step onto the court with confidence! In this edition, we’re highlighting essential pickleball etiquette—from greeting your opponents with a smile to playing with integrity—so every game is a positive experience.

Get ready to elevate your pickleball experience!

Before the Game

• Be Punctual – Whether playing in a scheduled match or open play, arriving on time shows respect for your partner and opponents.

• Introduce Yourself – In recreational play, a quick handshake, paddle tap, or friendly greeting helps create a welcoming atmosphere.

• Clarify Rules if Necessary – In different places, rules can vary slightly. If playing in a new location, ask about house rules regarding scoring, line calls, or stacking (for doubles).

During Play

Serving & Scoring

• Announce the Score Clearly – Say the full score before each serve to ensure everyone is on the same page.

• Wait for Readiness – Before serving, check that your opponents are ready to receive.

Fair Play

• Make Honest Line Calls – If you're unsure whether a ball was in or out, give the benefit of the doubt to your opponents.

• Accept Opponents' Calls Respectfully – Even if you disagree, respect their judgment unless asked for your opinion.

• No “Hooking” (Cheating on Line Calls) – It's a friendly game; calling a fair game is more important than winning a point.

Shot Selection & Strategy

• Don’t Smash at Weaker Players in Rec Play – Competitive play is different, but in casual games, avoid targeting beginners with hard overheads.

• Respect the Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone) Rules – Don’t argue over foot faults. If in doubt, play with integrity and call it on yourself.

• Don’t Play Every Ball in Doubles – Give your partner a chance to play instead of hogging every shot.

General Court Behavior

• Limit Excessive Talking During Play – Too much chatter can be distracting to your opponents and partner.

• Avoid Interrupting a Point – Don’t walk onto a court or call a ball “out” before it lands.

• Don’t Play Loud Music on the Court – Keep the environment pleasant for all.

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After the Game

• Acknowledge Good Play – Compliment great shots from both teammates and opponents.

• Tap Paddles and Say “Good Game” – It’s customary to tap paddles (a substitute for handshakes) at the net after the match.

• Be Gracious in Victory or Defeat – Celebrate wins with humility and accept losses with grace.

General Pickleball Courtesy

• Return Stray Balls Politely – If a ball rolls onto your court, stop play, return it gently, and wait for the other players to acknowledge it.

• Wait for Play to Stop Before Crossing Courts – Never walk behind or in between courts while a point is being played.

• Avoid Excessive Complaining – Bad calls, wind, or sun are part of the game. Play through them without whining.

• Help New Players Learn – Encourage and assist beginners rather than being overly critical.

Handling Common Etiquette Issues

1. Opponent Calls a Ball Out That You Think Was In

   • Politely say, “I thought it was in, but it’s your call.”

   • If playing recreationally, you can agree to replay the point.

2. Partner Keeps Taking Your Shots in Doubles

   • Use clear communication: “I’d like to take some of those forehand shots when they come my way.”

1. Someone Is Constantly Making Unfair Line Calls

   • If it’s a friendly game, let it go. If it’s happening repeatedly in competitive play, politely ask, “Are you sure? It looked in from here.”

2. You Accidentally Hit Someone With the Ball

   • Apologize immediately. Accidents happen, but a simple “Sorry about that!” helps maintain good sportsmanship.

That’s a wrap on this edition of our pickleball guide. Carry these tips into your next match and keep the spirit of the game alive. We hope these tips inspire your next game.

From friendly greetings to gracious goodbyes, it’s the small moments of sportsmanship that make pickleball special.

See you on the court!

Your PICKLEBACKCLUB Team 🥒🎾

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