How easy is Pickleball for kids?
Over the past few years, Pickleball has become extremely popular, especially among kids and teenagers. It is one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide.
Due to the rapidly increasing popularity of the sport, many recreation centers and parks have now started including Pickleball in their youth sports programming.
But do you know what Pickleball is? Or how it is played? If not, you should give this article a read.
We have included all the details you need to know about this amazing, fun sport called Pickleball.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of different sports like badminton, tennis, and ping pong. It is played using a plastic ball with holes and a paddle.
The best thing about this game is that it is suitable for people of all skill levels and ages. People play this sport to improve their athletic abilities and also to have fun.
Unlike other sports, Pickleball for kids doesn’t involve difficult rules. However, it can be a challenging and fast-paced game.
If you want your kids to be more active, you should introduce them to Pickleball.
Pickleball Rules for Kids and Beginners
Since many of you are yet to play Pickleball for the first time, we have set out a quick look the rules below. You will find more information about Pickleball rules by clicking on the links in each section.
The rules of Pickleball are maintained and updated by the USAPA.
Scoring Doubles
Many newbies find the scoring aspect of the game a little confusing at first.
Each game is played to 11 points and players must win by 2 clear points. Points are scored only to the serving team.
When it’s your team’s time to serve, both you and your partner will get the chance to serve and score. You can continue scoring points until you fault and then your opponents get the chance to serve.
However, the first serve of the game is only by the player on the right. When there is a fault the opponents get service, the partner does not serve in the initial rotation.
It is a side-out if the receiving team wins a rally against both serving partners. In this case, the receiving team becomes the serving team and vice versa.
A side out is when that side loses its service and the opponents then get to serve.
To start the game on all side-outs, the player on the right side of the court starts serving. If you score a point, then you will rotate position with your partner.
In doubles matches, the score is called three numbers, the serving team’s score, the server number, and the receiving team’s score.
For more detailed information about Pickleball Doubles rules, please click here
Scoring Singles
Compared to doubles, scoring in singles is easier. This is mainly because there is no second server.
In a singles match, if the receiving player wins the rally they get the chance to serve again.
You will find more detailed information about Pickleball Singles rules by clicking here
Formats of Pickleball for Kids
Pickleball includes many different play formats. In most cases, the venues often experiment to find out what is working the best.
The different play formats include “open” play, “traditional” tournaments, round-robins, ladder leagues, luck-of-the-draws, and shootouts.
Some venues also have a challenge court that is occupied by the winning team until they are defeated by the challengers.
Pickleball Paddles for Kids
Since Pickleball is very popular among kids, many sports brands have launched Pickleball paddles for kids that are specially designed for kids under the age of 12. This proves that sports brands have taken notice of the rising popularity of the game.
When it comes to picking a Pickleball paddle for kids, you must make sure that you are getting a quality product. You should always opt for a reputable brand that suits your budget.
Here are some features that you must consider when purchasing Pickleball paddles for kids.
Weight of the Pickleball paddle
One of the most important considerations is the weight of the paddle.
Junior paddles should be lightweight and easy to handle.
The ideal weight for junior paddles is between 6.5 oz to 6.9 oz. No matter, what brand of paddle you buy make sure that it is under 7 oz.
This is the maximum weight suitable for kids and junior players.
Grip size of the paddle
The next important consideration is the grip size of the paddle.
Unlike adults, kids have small hands, which means they need a smaller paddle grip.
The good thing is paddles are available in different grip sizes, so you can choose what’s right for your child.
Ideally, grips sizes for paddles start at 4 inches, which is considered small. This makes the ideal choice for kids under the age of 12.
However, if your kid is slightly older, then you can go for a grip size 4 1/2 inches.
USAPA approved
Well, this may not be an important consideration, but it is always a good idea to get paddles that are approved by USAPA. This is especially true for kids who are participating in Pickleball tournaments.
Pickleball Facts
Here are some Pickleball facts that you should know about.
- How did Pickleball start?
Pickleball was invented in 1965 by two dads named Bill Bell and Joel Pritchard in Bainbridge Island, Washington.
They invented this game after they found their families getting bored due to a lack of activities.
- Is Pickleball played with a pickle?
No, Pickleball is played with a paddle and plastic ball with holes.
- How many people play Pickleball?
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports with 4.1 million players all around the world. The majority of Pickleball players are in the United States.
Final Words
Pickleball is a fun game that is the collision of three different sports including ping pong, tennis, and badminton. More than a sport, it is a social activity and a great way to keep yourself active.
Pickleball for kids is a great way to be athletic, have fun and is a game the whole family can play.
