1 minute read
TheSTL’s inaPickle
How To Play
Pickleball is played on a small rectangular court divided by a low net. Free access to courts is available at several local parks, or many country and tennis clubs offer their members access to pickleball courts. Required equipment includes the pickleball and a paddle. Chapin notes that there are a variety of paddles available— whether it’s a low-cost option around $30 or a more serious investment of around $200.
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The game can be played one-on-one or in doubles. Play ends when a side reaches 11 points, with a two-point advantage. To start, a player delivers an underhand serve to their opponent in the space diagonal from them. Both the serve and its return must bounce once. The sides volley back and forth until the ball hits the net, goes out of bounds or bounces twice or more. Only the serving team can score.
This is pickleball at its most simple. There are additional rules to consider, especially in more competitive play, but Chapin notes that local players are always willing to teach those who want to learn about the game. If you’re interested in learning more about advanced strategy, he suggests lessons. “It’s definitely possible to hit the court without experience,” he says. “However, as a racquet sport, there are different swing styles and strategies. It can be kind of like a chess match. It’s not always going to be the fastest or strongest player that wins the game. It’s about outthinking your opponent.” &
Where To Play
It seems like you can’t swing a racquet in St. Louis without hitting a pickleball court. Here are just a few options for places to play.
