4|19|25 - Pickleball Adventures: How to Play the Coolest Paddle Game Ever!
Hey there, junior adventurer! Are you ready to learn a fun, fast, and exciting game that’s sweeping across parks and playgrounds everywhere? Say hello to pickleball—the game that’s a little like tennis, a little like ping pong, and a whole lot of fun!
Grab your paddle and your best game face, because we’re going on a pickleball adventure!
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a game played with:
A paddle (like a bigger version of a ping pong paddle)
A special plastic ball with holes (similar to a wiffle ball)
A small court, about the size of a badminton court
You can play one-on-one (singles) or with a friend on your team (doubles). The goal? Hit the ball over the net and try to score points without letting the ball bounce twice on your side!
And don’t worry—no pickles are involved (unless you bring them for a snack 😋).
What You Need to Play
Before you hit the court, here’s what you’ll need:
✅ A pickleball paddle
✅ A pickleball
✅ A pickleball court (look for one at your neighborhood park or community center)
✅ Comfy shoes you can run in
✅ A friend or two to play with
Optional but helpful: a hat, a water bottle, and your coolest "game face."
How to Play Pickleball in 5 Easy Steps
Ready to play? Let’s break it down!
1️⃣ Serve the Ball
Start behind the line and serve the ball underhand, diagonally to the other side of the court. The ball has to bounce once before the other team hits it!
2️⃣ Let It Bounce (Once!)
On the first two hits (serve and return), the ball has to bounce one time. After that, you can hit it in the air or after a bounce—your choice!
3️⃣ Rally Time!
Hit the ball back and forth over the net. Try to keep the rally going and make smart moves to earn points!
4️⃣ Stay Out of the "Kitchen" (Sometimes!)
There’s a special spot near the net called “the kitchen” (aka the no-volley zone). You can’t hit the ball out of the air while standing in the kitchen—only after it bounces!
5️⃣ Score Points
Only the team that serves can score. You win a point when the other team:
Misses the ball
Hits the ball out of bounds
Hits the ball into the net
First to 11 points (and ahead by 2) wins the game!
Pickleball Tips for Young Players
Watch the ball – Keep your eyes on the ball so you can move quickly and hit it just right.
Practice your serve – A good serve gives you a great start!
Move your feet – Stay light and ready to dash across the court.
Have fun! – It’s not just about winning. It’s about laughing, learning, and enjoying the game!
Why Pickleball Is So Awesome
*It’s easy to learn!
*You can play with friends or family!
*It’s fun for all ages!
*You don’t need a lot of gear!
*It’s great exercise!
You’ll be running, laughing, and improving your skills with every game. And who knows—you might become your town’s next pickleball champ!
Ready to Play?
Now that you know the rules, it’s time to grab your paddle, find a court, and start your pickleball adventure! Whether you’re playing for the first time or becoming a pro, pickleball is a game full of action, teamwork, and tons of fun!
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get picklin’! Happy hitting, pickleball champ!
