Pickle Ball

Do you play pickleball? An inclusive, non-elitist, accessible pastime, pickleball is gaining popularity among players of widely varying ages and abilities. In fact, it’s become a common high school sport in gym classes as well as being played in active adult communities across the nation. But what is pickleball?

A paddle sport combining elements of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong, pickleball is played using a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. A pickleball court is one quarter of the size of a tennis court, so it’s a great place to bond with other players. The rules are similar to ping pong, and pickleball can be played either as singles or doubles. A pickle ball set can be picked up at most major retailers and contains paddles that are similar to ping pong paddles, made of wood or fiberglass. Most sets also contain four pickleballs, and some also come with a net, along with the official rule book. Pickle balls are similar to whiffle balls but much more durable. There are no hard and fast rules about the balls, and which type of pickle ball is used can vary depending on your particular pickle ball league.

Now for the big question: why is it called pickleball? The truth is that it was named after a dog! Invented in the summer of 1965 near Seattle, Washington, the sport was developed by friends Joe Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum as a game to be enjoyed by entire families. Pickles was the Pritchard’s family dog, who had a habit of chasing the balls that escaped the court. Nearly 60 years later, this game continues to grow ever more popular.

Why is it such a hit? For one thing, you don’t have to be an athlete to play pickleball. Just about anyone can play, and it doesn’t put an excessive strain on the body. It’s perfect for beginners who want to find a fun way to get good exercise and it’s also a great alternative to tennis for older people who used to play but are now limited by physical problems with their joints, hips, shoulders, or knees. Another great thing about pickleball is that it can be played in a wide range of settings. Indoors, outdoors, at a recreational facility, or in your cul-de-sac, pickleball is a great way to exercise, have fun, and connect with your friends, neighbors, and family members.

When you’re looking for a new home, in a community where pickle ball and other fun activities are part of the lifestyle, Landmark Fine Homes has beautiful new and custom-built homes in a variety of sizes and floorplans, just waiting to become yours. Our homes are energy efficient and built with the utmost attention to detail, located in active adult communities where you’ll find plenty to do. Make your next house the home of your dreams by contacting Landmark Fine Homes today!