Ever stepped onto a pickleball court and wondered, “Am I doing this right?” You’re not alone. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle for the first time, understanding the unspoken rules of pickleball etiquette can make or break your experience. At PickleRage, we believe that great play starts with great behavior.
1. Pre-Game Etiquette
✅ Do: Greet Your Fellow Players
Start every game with a friendly introduction or a simple paddle tap. A warm greeting sets a positive tone and fosters camaraderie among players.
❌ Don’t: Interrupt Ongoing Games
Wait for a natural break before entering the court or retrieving balls. Respect the flow of the game and avoid causing unnecessary distractions.
✅ Do: Add Your Paddle to the Queue
At many busy courts, paddles are stacked to show who’s next to play. Look for a bench, fence, or rack with paddles lined up and join the system to keep things fair.
2. Serving and Scoring
✅ Do: Announce the Score Clearly
Always call out the score before serving. This ensures all players are on the same page and maintains the game’s rhythm.
❌ Don’t: Serve Before Everyone’s Ready
Before launching that serve, take a second to check if your opponents (and your partner) are set. No one wants to get caught mid-blink.
“Pickleball was created to be a fun, competitive, and highly social sport. Since its inception, it has embodied an ethic of good sportsmanship that includes respect, fair play, and graciousness in winning and losing.” — USA Pickleball Sportsmanship Guide
3. During Play
✅ Do: Communicate with Your Partner
Use clear calls like “mine” or “yours” to avoid collisions and confusion. Effective communication enhances teamwork and performance.
❌ Don’t: Distract Other Players
Avoid unnecessary noises or movements that can disrupt concentration. Stay focused and respect others’ focus during play.
❌ Don’t: Show Frustration Toward Your Partner
Rolling eyes, sighs, or paddle slaps send a negative message. Keep the vibes supportive—even during tough rallies.
4. Line Calls and Disputes
✅ Do: Make Honest Line Calls
If you’re unsure whether a ball was in or out, give the benefit of the doubt to your opponent. Honesty maintains the game’s integrity.
✅ Do: Replay the Point If Needed
When calls get murky, it’s always better to replay the point than risk bad blood. Fairness first.
❌ Don’t: Argue Over Calls
Handle disagreements calmly and consider replaying the point if necessary. Keeping a cool head preserves the game’s enjoyment for everyone.
On my third day of open play, I hit what felt like the best shot of my life—only for it to nick the net cord and barely dribble over. I threw my hands up in celebration, grinning like I’d won Wimbledon. But instead of cheering, my partner quietly tapped her paddle on the ground and said, “Nice shot… might want to offer a quick ‘sorry’ for the net love next time.”
Lesson learned: Even accidental winners deserve a touch of humility. Pickleball’s unwritten rules aren’t about being soft—they’re about keeping the game fun for everyone.
5. Post-Game Conduct
✅ Do: Acknowledge All Players
Offer a handshake or paddle tap to show respect, regardless of the game’s outcome. Good sportsmanship leaves a lasting impression.
❌ Don’t: Over-Celebrate
A fist pump? Totally fine. Running a victory lap after a net-cord winner? Maybe not.
6. Court Management
✅ Do: Rotate Fairly
Be mindful of court time and allow others to play. Sharing the court ensures everyone gets a chance to enjoy the game.
✅ Do: Cross Courts Respectfully
If you need to walk behind or through another court, wait until the point is over, then pass quickly and quietly.
❌ Don’t: Hog the Court
Avoid playing excessively long matches when others are waiting. Consider the community and make room for all players.
“You’ve got to be able to hit the ball hard. Nobody plays golf to putt.”
– Joel Pritchard (Along with Bill Bell and Barney McCallum, he created pickleball.)
7. Inclusivity and Encouragement
✅ Do: Support New Players
Offer guidance when asked and encourage beginners. A welcoming attitude helps grow the pickleball community.
✅ Do: Invite New Faces In
See someone standing solo near the fence? Invite them to join your game. That’s how a community grows.
❌ Don’t: Provide Unsolicited Advice
Only offer tips if the player seeks them out. Unwanted advice can be discouraging to new players.
By following these etiquette guidelines, you contribute to a positive and respectful pickleball environment. At PickleRage, we’re committed to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and valued. Let’s keep the game fun, fair, and friendly for all!
Want to become the kind of player everyone’s excited to see on the court? These etiquette tips are your shortcut. Join us at your local PickleRage club and be part of a community built on fun, fairness, and good vibes.