Discover the Sport That’s Taking Australia & New Zealand by Storm
Pickleball has taken Australia by storm, and it’s easy to see why. Pickleball has become more than just a game—it’s a movement. From the city courts of Sydney to the parks of Hamilton, people of all ages are grabbing paddles and joining in the fun. Fast-paced, social, and incredibly addictive, pickleball is the sport you didn’t know you were missing. Think you’re ready to jump in?
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is played on a court the same size as a badminton court using a perforated ball (similar to a whiffle ball) and paddles. It’s this unique combination that makes it accessible and engaging for beginners while still offering enough challenge for seasoned players.
The social aspect of pickleball is one of its best features. It’s a sport where laughter and regular on court chats are part of the game, but don’t let its easy-going nature fool you—pickleball can get quite competitive!
Key Rules and Scoring for Pickleball
Pickleball can be played as singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two-on-two), and understanding the basics of scoring and a few key rules will help you get started:
- Scoring: In pickleball, you can only score points when you’re serving. Games are typically played to 11 points, 15 points or 21 points, and you must win by two. In doubles, the team serves twice before handing over the serve, except for the very first serve of the game.
- The Serve: Players must serve underhand and diagonally, and the ball must land in the opponent’s service area. The server will switch sides after each point won.
- Bounce Rule: After the serve, each team must allow the ball to bounce once before hitting it. After these two bounces players can hit the ball in the air or off the bounce.
- Bounce when receiving serve.
- Bounce when receiving the return off the serve.
- Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen): You cannot hit the ball on the full while standing inside the 7-foot area near the net, known as the “kitchen.” If you do, it’s considered a fault. You can be in the kitchen anytime just make sure to let it bounce before taking a hit at it!
Essential Equipment to Get Started
To get started, you’ll need a paddle (not a pickleball racket), some pickleballs, and a court. Fortunately, it’s easy to find community pickleball courts popping up all over the place, and if not, some tennis courts are marked for pickleball too!
When it comes to equipment, we highly recommend checking out JOOLA’s pickleball paddles. Designed for both beginners and pros, JOOLA paddles offer superior control and durability, giving you the confidence to take your game to the next level.
What Makes Pickleball Perfect for Everyone?
Forget the idea that sports are only for younger audiences. Pickleball breaks all those stereotypes. Whether you’re 15 or 75, this sport is for you. It’s easy to pick up and endlessly enjoyable. At JOOLA, we’re all about inclusion—this sport invites everyone to the party.
- Health with a Side of Fun: Get ready to move, laugh, and enjoy every minute on the court. Pickleball isn’t just good for your heart; it’s great for your soul.
- A Sport for All Skill Levels: Don’t worry if you’ve never held a paddle before. Pickleball welcomes beginners with open arms, and there’s plenty of room to grow as your skills improve.
Gear Up: What You Need to Get Started
Ready to hit the court? If you’re wondering where to buy pickleball equipment near me, our team at JOOLA makes it easy. We offer a range of high-quality paddles, balls, and accessories that you can find at your local sports pickleball retailers or order online.
The right gear makes all the difference, and JOOLA has you covered. Whether you’re looking for your first paddle or upgrading to something more advanced, we’ve got the tools to elevate your game.
Top Paddles for Beginners
Try the JOOLA Ben Johns Blue Lightning Pickleball Set or the JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Set. These sets are designed to be lightweight, durable, and built for pickleball beginners who are just getting started with learning and developing their game.
Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate to Advanced
Whether you’re a seasoned player or transitioning from 2.99, our pro paddles will help unleash the champion in you on the court! From a community favourite like the Perseus to the MOD TA-15, there is a paddle for every type of pickleball player.
Find Your Court: Where to Play Pickleball in Australia
You’ve got the gear—now it’s time to find your game. Luckily, pickleball is booming across Australia, and finding a place to play has never been easier.
Join a Local Pickleball Club: Explore the Pickleball Australia Association Website or the Pickleball New Zealand Association to connect with clubs near you. Many offer beginner sessions where you can dive right into the action.
Grab Some Friends: Set up your own game at a local park or pickleball club. Most local councils now have accessible pickleball courts listed online!
Step into the Competition: Feeling competitive? Many local clubs host beginner-friendly tournaments, giving you a chance to test your skills and meet other players. Checkout the go to pickleball site Pickleball Brackets for competitions near you.
Sharpen Your Skills: Tips for New Pickleball Players
You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy pickleball, but if you’re looking to improve, we’ve got a few tips to help you get there. Start with the Basics: Master the serve and nail down your court positioning. These are the building blocks of your game. Learn from the Best: Check out JOOLA’s training videos for insider tips and tricks. Our experts will guide you every step of the way. Play Often, Play Smart: The more you play, the better you’ll get. Keep it fun and remember—practice makes progress.
Join the Pickleball Community: Let’s Grow Together
Pickleball isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about getting active, making connections, and having a blast while doing it. At JOOLA, we’re here to support your journey, whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your game. Ready to dive into the world of pickleball? Grab your gear, find a court, and start playing. The pickleball community is waiting for you—and it’s more fun than you can imagine.
