Pickleball — the quirky name, the fast-paced rallies, and the growing obsession — all began with a simple idea to beat boredom.
How It All Started
The year was 1965, and three dads — Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — were spending a summer afternoon on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Looking to entertain their kids, they improvised a game using:
- A badminton court
- A perforated plastic ball
- Table tennis paddles
At first, they just wanted to keep the kids occupied. But what started as a spontaneous backyard game quickly evolved into something much more exciting.
Rules That Just Made Sense
They noticed that the ball bounced well on asphalt and that a lower net made the game more dynamic. So, they adjusted the height of the net and developed rules that combined elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
Their goal was simple: create a game that everyone could enjoy — young or old, athletic or new to sports.
The Name? It’s a Bit of a Mystery…
There are two popular stories behind the name “Pickleball”:
- One says it was named after the Pritchard family dog, Pickles, who loved chasing the ball.
- Another claims it came from the term “pickle boat” — a reference in rowing when leftover rowers are thrown into a team.
Whichever story you choose to believe, the name definitely stuck.
From Local Game to Global Sport
In the 1970s, pickleball spread beyond the Pacific Northwest. By the 1980s, formal organisations were formed, and courts began popping up in schools, parks, and community centres across the US.
Today, Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, short learning curve, and ability to bring people together. Whether you’re 15 or 65, pickleball is for everyone.
Why Pickleball Is Still So Popular
- Easy to Learn – You don’t need to be a pro to start having fun.
- Social – Great for doubles and friendly competition.
- Fitness-Friendly – Low impact, but keeps you moving.
- Community Driven – Players often build long-lasting friendships.
