THE QUIRKIER RULES OF PICKLEBALL

Pickleball is something of a mix between tennis, racquetball and ping pong. Players use special paddles and a wiffle ball, and games take place on tennis courts with specific pickleball lines. Nets and court sizes are smaller than their tennis counterparts, and the most common game is doubles, but singles is possible. It has its own set of quirky rules — for instance, try to stay out of the “kitchen”— but they’re easy to learn.

THE KITCHEN

This 7-foot section of the court is on either side of the net at the front. Pickleball players cannot hit balls out of the air with volleys if standing in this area.

Court Rules

Two Bounce Rule

Both teams must play their first shot after letting the ball bounce. The receiving team must let the serve bounce and the serving team must let the return of the serve bounce before playing it.

10-SECOND RULE

Pickleball has instituted a 10-second rule to discourage those players who take forever to serve. If 10 seconds elapse without a serve, the ref can issue a technical warning. If this delay continues, referees can choose to award the opposing team a point.

• No skateboards, bikes, scooters or in-line skates

• No food or glass

• No pets

• Use courts at your own risk

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