Google trend - Pickleball

Pickleball is a versatile and rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played on a court with a modified tennis net, using paddles and a plastic ball with holes. The game can be played in singles or doubles format, making it suitable for players of all ages and skill levels.

The origin of pickleball can be traced back to 1965 when three friends – Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell – invented the game on Bainbridge Island, Washington. The name "pickleball" is said to have originated from the Pritchard family's dog, Pickles, who would chase after the ball during the early stages of the game.

The court dimensions for pickleball are similar to a badminton court, measuring 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. The net is set at 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high in the center. The playing area is divided into two sides by a non-volley zone, also known as the kitchen, which extends 7 feet from the net on both sides. The objective of the game is to score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent's court, while avoiding hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net.

Pickleball is played with a lightweight paddle, typically made of wood, composite materials, or graphite. The paddle is slightly larger than a table tennis paddle and has a perforated surface to reduce wind resistance. The plastic ball used in pickleball has holes in it, similar to a wiffle ball, which helps to slow the speed of the game and increase rally length. The ball comes in different colors, with each color indicating a specific level of play.

The game starts with a serve, which must be hit underhand and diagonally across the net. The serve must clear the non-volley zone and land in the opponent's court. Once the ball is in play, players can either volley the ball (hit it in the air without letting it bounce) or play it off a bounce. However, players are not allowed to volley the ball while standing inside the non-volley zone.

One of the unique aspects of pickleball is the "third-shot drop." This refers to the strategy of hitting a soft shot after the return of serve, which allows the serving team to move closer to the net and gain control of the point. This shot requires finesse and accuracy, as it aims to land the ball close to the opponent's baseline, forcing them to hit an upward shot.

Pickleball is known for its emphasis on strategy, placement, and finesse rather than power. It requires players to have good hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, and the ability to anticipate their opponent's shots. The game can be played at a leisurely pace for recreational players or at a fast-paced, competitive level for more experienced players.

The popularity of pickleball has been steadily increasing, with millions of players worldwide. It is played in community centers, parks, schools, and dedicated pickleball courts. The sport has its own governing body, the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA), which organizes tournaments, establishes rules, and promotes the growth of the sport.

In conclusion, pickleball is a dynamic and engaging sport that combines elements from various racquet sports. Its accessibility, versatility, and social nature have contributed to its rapid growth and popularity. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, pickleball offers a fun and challenging experience for all.