Pickleball Dates

Are you tired of the same old dinner-and-a-movie routine for date night? If you're looking for a date idea that feels a bit more fun and unique, consider picking up a paddle and diving into the world of pickleball. While some people may not have heard of it, according to Pickleball Heads pickleball is in fact the fastest growing sport in the US, with a massive 36.5 million players in 2022 alone.

The fast-paced vibe of this sport, combined with the fact that it doesn’t take itself super seriously (it is called pickleball after all), have caused it to surge in popularity. 

Suggesting a pickleball showdown as a date idea is not only a fantastic way to get active, but also likely to be a smashing success for your relationship. But before you book a court, read on as we’ll explore the origins of the sport, how to play, and most importantly, ways to make it romantic. 

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. The game is typically played on a rectangular court with a net in the middle, and it can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors. The equipment consists of a solid paddle and a perforated plastic ball, similar to the ball used in wiffle ball (a scaled back variation of baseball designed for playing in a confined space) but slightly larger. The rules are easy to grasp (read on for more on this), making pickleball accessible to players of all skill levels and ages—and therefore great for a date.

The game was invented in 1965 by three friends: Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. The trio, who were all residents of Bainbridge Island near Seattle, Washington, sought to create a game that would engage their families and friends during the summer.

The initial version of the game was played with a perforated plastic ball and paddles that were constructed from plywood. The first pickleball court was set up in Pritchard's backyard, and the game quickly gained popularity within the community.

According to US Pickleball Orginisation, the name ‘pickleball’ has various anecdotes associated with its origin. One popular story suggests that the game was named after the Pritchard family's dog, Pickles, who would chase after the errant balls. However, some sources suggest that the name might have originated from ‘pickle boat’, a term in crew (rowing) that refers to a boat comprised of leftover oarsmen not assigned to other boats.

Regardless of its name's origin, pickleball grew steadily in popularity, spreading beyond Bainbridge Island and into other communities. Over the years, formalized rules were developed, and pickleball associations and organizations were established to govern and promote the sport. 

OK, limber up while we explain! Pickleball is played on a court that's about one-third the size of a tennis court. The net is lower, and the equipment consists of solid paddles and a wiffle ball.

Pick a paddle that suits your playing style. Paddles come in various materials and weights, so choose one that feels comfortable in your hands.

Familiarize yourself with the court's non-volley zone, and the baseline. Understanding the court layout is crucial for strategic play.

The serve is underhand, and the ball must clear the non-volley zone on the other side of the net. Keep it simple, and remember to rotate service to the opposing team after each point.

Time to take notes! Pickleball is typically played in doubles. So you could turn the match into a double date and, depending on the dynamics, play on the same side or opposite your date. Enjoy the camaraderie and sexy, sporty tension as you navigate the court together.

The kitchen, or non-volley zone, is a key area in pickleball. Players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air without it bouncing) within this zone. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the game.

The scoring is straightforward (phew!). Games are played to 11 points, and you can only score when serving. If the game reaches 10-10, it's decided by a two-point margin. These easy rules mean you can focus more on flirting and flexing your date banter. 

It might sound silly, but become a master of the dink shot: The dink shot is a soft, controlled shot that barely clears the net. It's a strategic move, especially when you're close to the non-volley zone.

Positioning matters: Move your opponents around the court by varying your shots. Smart positioning can make a significant impact on the game.

Master the serve: Practice your serve, aiming to hit the ball diagonally to your opponent's service box. Keep in mind that, unlike tennis, the serve must be made underhand.

Communication is key: Like any good date, communication is crucial in pickleball. Coordinate with your partner, call shots, and enjoy the game together.

Pickleball is a sport that welcomes participants of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're both seasoned players or total beginners, the game's simplicity and accessibility make it easy for everyone to join in the fun. This inclusivity ensures that both you and your date can enjoy the experience, regardless of your athletic background.

Unlike traditional dinner dates that involve sitting for an extended period, pickleball gets you moving and your heart pumping. The physical activity not only contributes to a healthier lifestyle but also releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones, creating a positive and energetic atmosphere for your date.

As we’ve mentioned, pickleball is often played in doubles, fostering teamwork and communication between partners. It's an excellent opportunity to strengthen your bond, enhance cooperation, and develop a sense of unity as you strategize and coordinate your moves on the court. The skills you develop in pickleball can translate into better communication in your relationship.

Trying something new together is a fantastic way to break the ice and share a few laughs. Whether you're fumbling with serves or perfecting your dink shots, the learning process becomes a shared experience that can bring you closer. Embracing the challenges and celebrating small victories together adds a playful dynamic to your date.

And finally pickleball is a relatively inexpensive activity compared to some traditional date options. With minimal equipment required—just a paddle, some balls, and access to a court—you can enjoy an active date without breaking the bank. It's a budget-friendly way to create lasting memories.

Here are some ideas for how to integrate pickleball into your next date. If you’ve played before, why not sign up for a pickleball lesson or clinic together? Improving your skills side by side can be a fun bonding experience, and you'll both become better players in the process.

Who said pickleball isn’t romantic?! Take advantage of outdoor courts and play pickleball as the sun sets. You could even pack a picnic so you can refuel after the match. Cheese and pickle sandwiches all round! 

If you're feeling adventurous, organize a mini-tournament for just the two of you. Keep score, play multiple rounds, and see who emerges victorious. Loser buys dessert!

So what are you waiting for? Grab a paddle and let sparks fly as well as balls on your next pickleball date.