Pickleball Made Simple: A Quick Guide to the Rules and Basics

If you are like me and the ins-and-outs of pickleball kind of confuse you, then you are in the right place. Let’s do an overview of the rules and basics so we can start dominating on the court!

Court Terms to Know

Baseline: Back boundary line; serves must be hit from behind it.

Sidelines & Center Line: Mark the court’s edges and service boxes. Shots landing outside are out.

The Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone): The area closest to the net. You can stand in it but never volley while inside or let momentum carry you in after a volley.

Serving Basics

Every point starts with an underhand serve from behind the baseline. The ball must land diagonally in the opposite service box. If it lands in the kitchen or outside the box, it’s a fault.

Scoring Simplified

Only the serving team scores. Win a rally, earn a point, and keep serving. Lose the rally, and the other team gets the serve. Games are usually played to 11. (win by two)

Brief Note: In doubles, both partners usually get a turn to serve before turn switches.

Double Bounce Rule (bounce once per side)

After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed.

Quick Reminders

• Only the serving team scores.
• Follow the double bounce rule.
• Move to the kitchen line after returning.
• Never volley while standing in the kitchen.
• Control the net whenever possible.

Once you get the hang of the basics, head to the Community Center courts, open daily from dawn to dusk, or sign up for a class! See you there!

Kiki Messerschmidt, Recreation Assistant