I’ve heard about it, but I still don’t know. What is pickleball?
It’s a game with players hitting a ball over a net, and is played in singles or doubles.
Oh, so like tennis?
That’s about where the similarity ends. The rackets, ball, rules and even the heights of the nets are different. It is less strenuous on the body than tennis.
It sounds like badminton?
It’s not like badminton either. The ball is plastic and light with holes in it and the racquets are different from tennis and badminton. It’s like a table tennis paddle but bigger.
How long does it last?
It’s a best-of-three format, and each game lasts 15-25 minutes.
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Where did it come from?
It began in the US in the 1960s, but was first brought into Ireland in 2016. There is even a professional league and a dedicated magazine.
Can I play pickleball?
Pickleball is aimed at anyone, regardless of age and gender, and in the US over half of pickleball players are older than 55 and 32 per cent are older than 65. If you have bad knees or consider yourself unfit or haven’t played sport ever/in years, pickleball is a good one to consider.
It’s low impact, making it easier on the joints than running. It’s also played on a small court, so there is less running involved.
Should I play pickleball?
If you want to get fit and meet new people, then it would be a good shout. It can be played indoors and outdoors, which will be handy going into the colder months.
How do I win?
The point of the game is to volley the ball back and forth until someone makes a mistake. To win, you have to reach a score of 11 ... as long as the opposition isn’t directly behind you. So you actually have to reach 11 and the other team has to be at least two points behind you. Otherwise you keep going until one side is two points in front.
Are there Irish clubs?
Yes, the game is growing in popularity here and the Dublin City Sport and Wellbeing Partnership are even hosting the second annual pickleball festival on September 24th in DCU.
Fine, I’m convinced. Where can I play?
There are a number of clubs in Ireland, with Killiney, Co Dublin, starting one just recently. You might have to travel for your local club if you’re not in Dublin but about 13 counties have a club. Most clubs allow walk-ins and welcome people of all fitness levels. Check pickleboardireland.com as some clubs prefer to have some notice of numbers.
How much is this going to cost me?
It depends where you’re playing. Some clubs are subsidised by their local council but other clubs will have to charge a nominal fee for providing the rackets, nets, and balls. An annual membership to Pickleball Ireland is €5, if you’re interested.
What do I wear?
Runners are the only real essential, but wear something you feel comfortable in! You will be working up a sweat so sports gear is advisable.
What do pickles have to do with anything?
The name actually comes from one of the founder’s dog, Pickles, who kept stealing the ball and running away from the court.
