Pickleball has quickly become quite popular at Si View. We offer open play, leagues and tournaments both indoors and outdoors. Si View Park outdoor court is lined for pickleball in addition to basketball.
Get players together on outdoor community courts. EJ Roberts Park in North Bend has pickleball courts with a permanent net, at Si View Park from May to August you can check out portable nets from the community center for outdoor court play (you'll need to bring your own paddles).
Pickleball is a Social Activity
Because a pickleball court is smaller than a tennis court (you can actually convert one tennis court into four pickleball courts), gameplay allows players to be close enough to one another that they can hold conversations. So, if you're looking to bond with your family or have an outing with friends new or old, pickleball makes it easy to do just that while also giving you the ability to fit in a fun workout.
Playing Pickleball is Healthy
If you are looking for some great exercise for your mind and body, pickleball can't be beat. Playing pickleball allows you to work on your balance, agility, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination without putting excessive strains on your body. Pickleball is a wonderful alternative for older players who used to play tennis, but have physical limitations such as hip, shoulder, knee, or other joint problems.
How to Get Started
Equipment you will need include comfortable shoes and a paddle. The paddle you use should not be too heavy. The grip should feel comfortable in your hand with some cushion. You have a choice to play singles, doubles or mixed doubles. When playing with equally skilled players as yourself, you will have good competition and lots of fun. All ages play this sport.
Before you get started, be sure to warm up to elevate your heart rate and get your body ready with some dynamic stretches. A game of pickleball is played to 11 points; however, you must win by 2 points. Scoring can be modified for tournament, league, or open play. A game can last anywhere from 10 – 25 minutes. Players can only score points when they are serving.
To start, the serve must be hit under hand and the contact of the paddle to the ball must be below your waist. Each team must play their first shot after the ball bounces, and after that then both teams can choose to move forward up to the non-volley line or stay back at the baseline. It is best to move up to the non-volley line as soon as possible and make sure your partner follows you up.
Partners should always move up or back and side to side together. No volleying is permitted within the seven foot non-volley zone; this prevents players from closing the net since the court is so small. This promotes the drop volley or “dink” shot strategies where players skillfully hit shots over the net that land in the non-volley zone – or called “the kitchen”. If the balls bounces in the kitchen, then a player can step into the kitchen to hit it over.
Some tips: While waiting for the ball, keep your paddle high, centered to your chest – that way you're ready for a shot on either side of you. Keep on your toes, anticipating the next shot. Keep the ball in play – let your opponent make the error.
See you on the courts!
