A BEGINNER’S GUIDE    

HOW TO PLAY PICKLEBALL

Learn the basics, understand the rules, and step onto the court with confidence.

JUMP TO:

INTRO

WHAT IS PICKLEBALL?

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, ping pong, and badminton. It is easy to pick up, moves quickly, and works for all ages.

At Hawks Court, you will see a mix of players using the space in different ways. Some are learning the game for the first time. Others are in the middle of competitive matches. That balance makes it easy to step in without feeling out of place.

Hawks Court Start the Conversation Drinking

BASICS

THE BASIC RULES

If you are new, you do not need to memorize everything. These are the key rules that will get you through your first game:

1

Games are usually played to 11 points, win by 2

2

Only the serving team scores points

3

Serves are underhand and hit diagonally

4

The ball must bounce once on each side after the serve

5

Players cannot volley inside the kitchen

BASICS

WHAT IS THE KITCHEN?

The kitchen is the non-volley zone near the net. It is one of the most talked-about parts of pickleball.

THE 1st GAME

WHAT YOUR FIRST GAME FEELS LIKE

Most people do not learn pickleball from reading rules. They learn by stepping into a game.

You might watch a few points, then rotate in and start playing. You will miss a few shots, adjust quickly, and get into the rhythm within a game or two.
Open play at Hawks Court is designed for this kind of experience. Players rotate in and out, and there is usually a mix of skill levels on the courts. 

WHAT YOU NEED

EQUIPMENT & GETTING STARTED

If you do not have your own gear, equipment is available onsite. That makes it easy to show up and try it without planning ahead.

If you want more structure, lessons and clinics are available to help you learn faster and feel more comfortable.

WHAT YOU NEED

Paddle

Ball

Court

STARTING

WHERE TO START

If you are deciding how to jump in, here are a few options:

Open Play allows for a relaxed, drop-in session with no commitment required.

Beginner League puts you in a fun, structured environment where new players compete at their own pace.

Beginner Clinic teaches you the fundamentals through hands-on instruction built for first-time players.

Each option gives you a different way to experience the game.