Capital Area Pickleball Association PickleBlog

Registration Begins April 1st for the 2026 Madtown Pickleball Open

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:58:54 GMT

Registration opens this Wednesday, April 1, for the 2026 Madtown Pickleball Open! The Madtown is Wisconsin’s largest annual outdoor pickleball tournament. This year, the tournament will be held from July 10-12, 2026, at Wyndham Hills Park in Sun Prairie, but in the event of inclement weather, Pickleball Kingdom in Sun Prairie will serve as the indoor backup venue. Organizers are expecting over 400 players to participate, some of whom will be coming in from out-of-state. Anyone age 18+ in skill levels 3.0-5.49 can register! This is a USA Pickleball-sanctioned tournament, and scores will be entered into DUPR. Registration will remain open through July 5. Early bird pricing ($60 registration fee + $20 per bracket fee) is available from April 1-30, with general event pricing ($75 registration fee + $20 per bracket fee) in effect from May 1-July 5. Your registration helps to fund the Madison Area Sports Commission Youth Grant, which gives kids with financial limitations the chance to play sports. I hope to see you at the Madtown! Keep pickling!

MSCR to Launch Youth Pickleball Program This Summer!

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 02:15:16 GMT

This summer, Madison School and Community Recreation (MSCR) will launch a youth beginner pickleball instruction program for kids going into the 3^rd – 9^th grades. Classes will be taught on Madison’s west side at the pickleball courts in Elver Park and on the east side at the courts in Door Creek Park.

There will be 4 two-week sessions of classes that families can choose from. The classes will be taught Monday – Thursday mornings. One class will be held from 9:30-10:15 am, and another class will be held from 10:30-11:15 am. To clarify, a given child only has to register for one 2-week session and one 45-minute class period each day of that session.

The sessions will run as follows:

Session 1: 6/22/2026 – 7/2/2026

Session 2: 7/6/2026-7/16/2026

Session 3: 7/20/2026-7/30/2026

Session 4: 8/3/2026 – 8/13/2026

Registration for Madison residents will open at noon on April 6, 2026, and at noon on April 20, 2026, for non-residents. You can register your child at mscr.org.

Paddles and balls will be provided for free for kids to use during the class.

Parents: please ensure your child arrives for class wearing some form of eye protection, which could include sunglasses. They should also wear tennis shoes with non-marking soles and bring something cold to drink.

Resetting Your DUPR

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:56:24 GMT

Do you have a Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) that you believe is too low and does not adequately reflect your actual abilities as a player? Would you be willing to pay to have the chance to reset it? If so, good news—you are in luck!

For the first time ever, players will have a limited opportunity to try and reset their DUPR rating. Here is how it works. First, register for the Reset through the DUPR website or app. This will require a one-time, non-refundable payment of $34.99. Then, between March 16 and May 17, 2026, play at least 8 matches with 2 different partners (doubles), or 8 matches against 2 different opponents (singles). You must ensure that the matches are part of a league, tournament, or organized club play where the organizer submits scores to DUPR; self-reported matches do not count. After you complete the required matches, DUPR will automatically calculate your Reset rating. Your Reset rating is calculated using only matches played during the window. When the Reset Period ends, DUPR will assign you whichever rating is higher—your original rating or your Reset rating, so there is no downside to participating in the program.

Good luck, and happy pickling!

CAPA Announces Dates and Venue of 2026 Baird CAPA Cup Tournament

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:38:30 GMT

The 2026 Baird CAPA Cup Tournament will be held Friday, August 14, 2026, through Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Pickleball Kingdom in Sun Prairie! Pickleball Kingdom is located at 463 Broadway Drive, in Sun Prairie, WI, 53590. More details, including registration information, will be posted on the CAPA website in a couple of months, but for now, please save the date! Hope to see you there!

Possible Singles Court Modification Coming?

Abigail Darwin — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 19:24:57 GMT

If you’ve ever played a game of competitive singles pickleball, you know the feeling: you’re sprinting toward the sideline like your life depends on it, lunging for a passing shot that feels miles away, only to realize you’ve left the entire other side of the court wide open.

The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) recently announced that it will be introducing a narrower court for pro singles play on a trial basis at its upcoming professional Challenger Series events in Houston, TX, Harbour Island, FL, Newport Beach, CA, and Opelika, AL. The modified court will bring the sidelines in by 1.5 feet on each side (3 feet total). So, instead of being 20 feet wide, the court will now be 17 feet wide.

On a full-width court, singles is dominated by the "power game." Because there is so much ground to cover, players are forced to hit hard, deep drives to keep their opponents pinned back. The nuanced dinks and resets that make pickleball unique often disappear in singles; it’s simply too risky to move to the kitchen line when you have 20 feet of width to defend alone. By trimming 1.5 feet off each side, we may see more dinking, and the PPA may be helping move pickleball back toward its roots, rewarding strategy as well as swiftness and stamina.

2026 Pickleball Rule Changes

Abigail Darwin — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 23:51:39 GMT

Although no earth-shattering changes were made, USA Pickleball has updated its 2026 Official Rulebook to revise and clarify certain rules. The most significant updates for 2026 are as follows:

1. Scoring: The Rally Scoring "Freeze" is Gone

In previous years, in rally-scoring formats, the game-winning point could only be scored by the serving team. This often led to a "freeze" where a leading team could get stuck on the next-to-final point for several rotations.

For 2026, Rules 4.B and 14.A.2 provide that the game-winning point in rally scoring can now be scored by either the serving or receiving team. This eliminates the freeze, ensuring that the momentum of the rally determines the end of the match, rewarding the team that wins the rally, regardless of who served.

2. Serving: Clarifying Spin and Upward Arc

The 2026 rules provide additional clarity regarding what constitutes a legal serve.

Rule 7.B.2 now explicitly states that you cannot manipulate the ball with your hand or fingers to add spin during the release. You can, however, apply spin with your paddle at the moment of contact for the serve.
Rule 7.C adds the word "clearly" to the volley serve requirements. The rules now state that the upward arc, the paddle head position (below the wrist), and the contact point (below the waist) must all be clearly visible and legal. This shifts the benefit of the doubt in officiated matches. If a serve is "borderline" or too close to call, referees are now encouraged to rule it a fault because it was not clearly legal. This is intended to curb the trend of "sidearm" serves that skirt the “waist-height” rule.

3. Sportsmanship: Expanded Official Authority

USA Pickleball is tightening the screws on "gamesmanship" and conduct.

Rule 22.A now gives referees the authority to issue verbal warnings or technical fouls before the match starts. This includes the warm-up period and pre-match briefings.
Rule 22.L allows ejections for violence. The 2026 language is more explicit regarding physical violence or property damage. Tournament directors can now eject players for acts of paddle or ball abuse that cause injury or damage to the venue.

4. Court Play: Line Calls and "Net Post" Clarifications

Rule 8.F.3 requires that "out" calls must be made promptly. This clarification discourages players from waiting to see if their partner returns the ball before deciding to call a ball out. If the call isn't signaled or voiced immediately, the ball is considered in.
Rule 10.C.5 clarifies that if a ball legally crosses the net, bounces in the opponent's court, and then spins or blows into the net post, it is no longer an automatic fault on the hitter. It is treated as a dead ball, and since it already bounced in, the hitter wins the rally.

5. Spectator Involvement

The language regarding spectators has been upgraded from a recommendation to a mandate.

Whereas the rulebook previously stated that players "should not" consult spectators on line calls, Rule 8.J now says players "must not" consult spectators. If a player asks a fan or bystander for help with a call, they could be issued a warning or penalty for violating this rule in an officiated match.

6. Ball Out of Pocket

Rule 24.B.1 clarifies that if an extra ball is visible to an opponent or falls out of your pocket during a rally, it is a fault.

To see the full list of rule changes, as well as the reasons for the changes, visit the 2026 USA Pickleball Rulebook Change Document.

Pickleball Kingdom in Sun Prairie to Open in January 2026

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 17:07:52 GMT

Pickleball Kingdom private indoor pickleball courts expects to open its doors to players on January 11, 2026. The facility will be located at 463 Broadway Drive, Sun Prairie, WI, 53590. This opening date is about a month later than originally anticipated, due to some slight construction and weather delays. During the first week that the facility is open, Pickleball Kingdom will offer a free week of soft-launch play. For more information about the new Pickleball Kingdom, as well as membership rates, and to sign up to receive the latest updates, click here.

USA Pickleball Adopts DUPR as its Official Exclusive Rating System

Abigail Darwin — Sat, 06 Dec 2025 04:54:19 GMT

USA Pickleball recently designated the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) as its exclusive, official rating system. Previously, it had been using a rating system many people were unfamiliar with called Universal Tennis Rating-Pickleball (UTR-P). The UTR-P was mainly U.S.-based and was used to track wins and losses of players who primarily competed in official USA Pickleball-sanctioned tournaments.

By now using DUPR, USA Pickleball is embracing a much more widely-adopted, global rating system that uses a more sophisticated algorithm to calculate a player’s skill rating. Skill ratings are not just based on simple win/loss records but are also impacted by things like opponent ratings, the player’s actual margin of victory, and a comparison of actual to expected match results. DUPR’s algorithm is therefore able to provide a more precise measure of a player's true skill rating than UTR-P could. USA Pickleball’s adoption of DUPR therefore promotes fairer play and more accurate tournament seeding.

USA Pickleball's switch to DUPR further consolidates the sport’s use of DUPR as the preeminent rating system and is a critical step in the sport's maturation. The DUPR rating system will now be used by USA Pickleball, The PPA Tour, Major League Pickleball, Minor League Pickleball, Pickleball Canada, The Global Pickleball Federation, and thousands of other clubs and leagues around the world.

For more information about USA Pickleball’s adoption of DUPR as its official and exclusive rating system, click here.

Washington State Gets Its Own Specialty Pickleball License Plate

Abigail Darwin — Sat, 29 Nov 2025 16:44:57 GMT

With Washington (Bainbridge Island) being the birthplace of pickleball, it seems only fitting that the state would get its own specialty license plate to celebrate this unique aspect of its heritage. As of November 2025, Washington officially has a new “State Sport: Pickleball” specialty plate, cementing its place alongside Tennessee and Montana as having a license plate dedicated to the world's fastest-growing sport.

This wasn't an easy win, however. The journey to get a specialty pickleball plate took three years, beginning with a petition and legislative effort spearheaded by the Seattle Metro Pickleball Association (SMPA). The organization collected thousands of signatures and pushed for the plate through the state legislature before it was finally approved in an omnibus bill that consolidated several specialty plates.

The plate features a stylish design titled “Pickleball Rising,” created by local Seattle artist Jason Laramie. The design is inspired by the ferry ride leaving Bainbridge Island, with a pickleball rising like the sun over Washington, symbolizing both the sport's origins and its growing popularity.

For Washington's pickleball community, this new plate isn't just a decorative accessory; it's a means for funding the sport's future. Proceeds from the plate's sales will go directly to the SMPA to support the construction and maintenance of dedicated public pickleball courts throughout the state. This funding is crucial for sustaining pickleball's explosive growth and ensuring it remains accessible and inclusive for players of all ages and backgrounds.

While Washington may be the newest state to roll out a pickleball plate, it joins two other states that have already embraced the sport on their roads.

Tennessee offers a pickleball specialty license plate that helps support youth programs. The license plate was designed by a non-profit called the Tennessee Junior Pickleball Association (TJPA), and proceeds from plate sales are used to fund pickleball equipment purchases, teacher training, and program development in schools and parks across the state.

Montana offers a specialty “406” license plate, on which the “0” is in the likeness of a pickleball. The plate is sponsored by a non-profit called 406 Pickleball Missoula, Inc. Proceeds from license plate sales are used to support the promotion of pickleball within the state by funding activities like advocating for the sport, maintaining public courts, and developing qualified officials.

The growth of pickleball license plates in states like Washington, Tennessee, and Montana highlights the sport's increasing mainstream appeal and its ability to mobilize local communities. Enthusiasts are using their passion to create tangible, lasting impacts on the sport, all while showcasing their love for pickleball on the road.

The movement to support the sport through this unique fundraising method is a testament to pickleball's passionate community and its ability to drive positive change, one vehicle at a time. With the success seen in these states, it's fair to wonder which state will be next to get a pickleball license plate. Might I suggest Wisconsin?

Demystifying Pickleball Paddle Specs

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:29:38 GMT

If you have ever shopped for a pickleball paddle and felt overwhelmed by the specs—swing weight, twist weight, balance point, core thickness—it’s not just you. Paddle companies love numbers, but players mostly want to know how a paddle will actually feel in their hand. Here is a simple, no-nonsense guide to what those specs really mean, and how to use them to choose a paddle you will love.

Swing Weight: The “Effort Level” Meter

Swing weight measures how heavy a paddle feels when you swing it. Two paddles may weigh the same on a scale, but the one with more mass toward the top will feel heavier in motion.

Paddles with a higher swing weight will give you more power and stability, but less maneuverability.
Paddles with a lower swing weight will allow you to have “quicker hands” (because they feel lighter and are easier to swing), and enable easier resets, but will have less power.

If you prioritize power, a higher swing weight might be beneficial. However, if you frequently find yourself late on hands battles at the kitchen, a lower swing weight might save your sanity (and your wrist).

Twist Weight: The Stability Score

Twist weight measures how much the paddle resists twisting when you mishit toward the edges.

Wider paddles generally have higher twist weights, with a larger effective sweet spot, allowing more forgiveness. Longer, thinner paddles tend to have lower twist weights and require more precision when hitting the ball. Players who want more consistency or who hit off-center often will benefit from a paddle with higher twist weights. It is essentially your margin-of-error spec.

Balance Point: Where the Weight Actually Sits

This tells you where the paddle’s center of mass is.

Head-heavy paddles have a higher balance point and generate more power but can feel sluggish.
Handle-heavy paddles are fast and nimble but may have less power on drives.

Static Weight: The Number on the Scale

This is the total mass of the paddle, usually between 7.5 and 8.5 ounces. By itself, it is not the whole story. A heavier paddle can still feel quick if the weight is low in the handle. Still, static weight matters for comfort; some players prefer a heavier paddle, and some players prefer a lighter paddle. You should experiment with both before deciding which to purchase.

Core Thickness: Cushion vs. Pop

Core thickness changes the feel dramatically:

Thicker cores (16mm+) absorb more shock, add stability, provide more control, and allow more dwell time for the ball on the paddle’s face.
Thinner cores (13–14mm) give the paddle more pop, more power, and allow for a livelier bounce of the ball off the paddle.

If you play a control game built around dinks and resets, thicker cores are your friend. If you have more of a power game, you will prefer a paddle with a thinner core.

Face Material: The Spin and Feel Factor

Face material affects how the paddle interacts with the ball and the amount of spin you will be able to impart on the ball.

Raw carbon fiber provides maximum spin and a controlled, gritty feel.
Fiberglass provides a poppier and more powerful feel but generally allows for less spin than a carbon fiber paddle.
Hybrid/composites attempt to blend both worlds.

Handle Length: Reach vs. Control

Paddles with longer handles (5.5 inches or more) enable you to hit two-handed backhands and also add reach and power. Paddles with shorter handles (under 5 inches-5.25 inches) give you a larger sweet spot and improve control.

Conclusion

Understanding your own game and paddle specs can help you find the ideal paddle. If you want power and stability, look for higher swing and twist weights. If you live at the kitchen line and value quick hands, favor a lighter swing weight and a handle-heavy design. Happy paddle-buying and happy pickling!

Where to Play Pickleball Indoors

Abigail Darwin — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 19:22:00 GMT

Are you wondering where to play pickleball indoors in the Madison area now that the colder weather is upon us? If you are looking for dedicated pickleball courts and live on the west side, Hitters Tennis & Pickleball Club in Middleton might be a good option. If you live on the east side, you might want to consider Pickle Pro Courts or Dill Dinkers. Also remember that Pickleball Kingdom will be opening in Sun Prairie in December as well. For a listing of all area indoor courts, click here.

Playing Pickleball in Extreme Temperatures

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 21:43:02 GMT

Most pickleballs are made of plastic, which is sensitive to temperature extremes. Whether you are playing in frosty conditions or the sweltering heat, the temperature could be affecting the ball and your game. Let’s investigate what happens to pickleballs when the thermometer goes to extremes.

Cold Balls: Fast, Hard, and Fragile

Once the temperature dips down to about 45 degrees Fahrenheit and colder, your pickleball begins transforming into a little brick of brittle aggression.

Like most plastics, the material in a pickleball contracts in the cold. This makes the ball incredibly stiff, which has two immediate, and often unwelcome, effects on the court.

The Ball Becomes a Rocket: Stiffer plastic means less energy is absorbed on impact. The ball comes off the paddle face faster, and the balls bounce lower. What was once a graceful third-shot drop is now a speeding bullet that’s much harder to control. If you love a fast-paced game, the cold is your friend, but good luck trying to slow down a dink rally.
The Cracking Conundrum: The real danger in the cold is fragility. That stiff plastic becomes brittle, especially around the edges of the holes. Every hard strike against a paddle or the court creates a tiny shockwave across the ball’s surface. If you're an aggressive power player, you’ll be buying new balls frequently, as a crisp overhead smash in freezing temperatures will often result in a cracked ball.

Cold-Weather Hack: Keep some spare balls in your pocket! Your body heat will keep them slightly warmer and more pliable, letting you rotate in a fresh, less-brittle ball every few points.

Great Balls of Fire: Slow, Soft, and Mushy

The other end of the thermometer presents a completely different, though equally challenging, problem. In high heat, your pickleball goes from being a speedy projectile to a soft, sluggish marshmallow.

When it’s scorching outside, usually around 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, the plastic in the ball begins to expand and soften. This changes the ball's properties in the following ways:

The Bounce Dies: A soft ball is an energy-absorbing ball. When you hit it, or when it hits the court, the soft plastic deforms and soaks up much of the power, killing the lively bounce you're used to. Volleys lose their pop, and your power serves and groundstrokes feel strangely muted. Hot conditions often produce a lower bounce, especially on outdoor courts that absorb heat. This means you’ll have to generate more effort in your swing to lift the ball, and you will physically have to get lower to stay in control of the ball. Generally, because of its effect on the ball, hot temperatures slow the game down considerably, favoring players who rely on defense, resets, and consistency over aggressive speed and power.
Ball Becomes Oblong: The softer the plastic, the more prone it is to deformation. Repeated, forceful impacts in the heat can cause the ball to lose its perfectly spherical shape. An oblong, or egg-like shaped, ball wobbles mid-air and produces a more erratic, less predictable bounce—the kind that makes you question your eyesight.

Hot-Weather Hack: To retain some firmness and consistency, try keeping your spare balls in an insulated cooler between games. A slightly chilled ball will perform much better.

Ultimately, the humble pickleball is a fantastic reminder that a little plastic can have a big personality. Next time the weather is working against you, remember to modify not just your layers or your water intake, but your strategy. The ball changes with the temperature, and a smart player knows how to adjust their game with the weather conditions.

Pickleball Kingdom Founding Memberships are Now Available!

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:58:09 GMT

Pickleball Kingdom – Sun Prairie, which is planning to open in mid-December, has just made Founding Memberships available for purchase on its website! You can join as a monthly or annual member, as an individual, team (duo), or family. Membership prices start as low as (Monthly: $44.99 / Annual: $419.99) and include unlimited private court reservations and open plays, as well as discounts on ball machine use, unlimited Podplay reviews, and free daily locker use. For more information, please visit their website.

New Indoor Courts Opening at The Grove in Mazomanie!

Abigail Darwin — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 17:46:55 GMT

The Grove Regional Community Center in Mazomanie will be providing three more indoor pickleball courts, starting October 11, 2025. With the new addition, there will now be five total pickleball courts there to play on. The Grove will celebrate the grand opening of its three new courts from 9:30-11:30 am on Saturday, Oct. 11. At that day and time, play will be free, and there will be a drawing for great prizes. The Grove is located at 314 Anne Street, in Mazomanie, WI, 53560.

The courts are on a multi-marked, wooden gymnasium floor. You can rent equipment, including balls and paddles, at The Grove if you don’t already have your own. Open play is currently available Monday and Thursday nights from 6-8 pm, and on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 9-11 am. The cost to play is $5 per time, or you can buy a punchcard that would enable you to play ten times for $40. Sign-up for the open play is available through playtimescheduler.com or on the Playtimescheduler App, as well as on Meetup.com (through the Madison Pickleball Meetup Group). Click here for more information about pickleball play at The Grove.

Come Celebrate the Opening of the New McGaw Park Pickleball Courts!

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 18:57:22 GMT

Four new pickleball courts have been added at McGaw Park in Fitchburg, bringing the total number of courts there now to twelve. You can join the Fitchburg Mayor and City Council Members for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the official opening of the new courts at 3:00 pm on Thursday, October 2, 2025. At the ribbon cutting, you will have the opportunity to enjoy exciting high-level play from local talent (including pro-player Dave Weinbach), pick up tips to improve your own game, and then jump in to play with friends and neighbors! There will also be a raffle with great prizes, as well as delicious cake to eat! Although reservations are not required, if you would like to attend, please RSVP on playtimescheduler.com, by clicking here, so we have some general idea of how many people to expect. The general open play starts at 2 pm. All are welcome. You do not have to be a Fitchburg resident or a member of the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) to attend. McGaw Park is located at 5236 Lacy Road, Fitchburg, WI, 53711. Hope to see you there!

New Pickleball Courts Coming to Warner Park in 2026

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 20:11:03 GMT

I have an update about the new pickleball courts coming to Warner Park in Madison. The City Parks Division has confirmed that 8 new dedicated pickleball courts will be constructed and will be located between the existing shelter and tennis courts in the southeast area of the park. The existing tennis courts are in poor condition and will be removed. The current lighting will remain in use until a future phase of construction in the same area. New paved multi-use paths will be constructed to provide access to the pickleball courts and to provide access to the existing shelter. Construction of the pickleball courts will begin in spring 2026 and is expected to be completed by fall 2026. To see a graphic of the proposed layout of the courts, click here.

The City of Madison will be holding a virtual public meeting on October 9, 2025, at 6 pm to discuss plans for the pickleball courts. If you are interested in attending the meeting, advance registration is required. To register and receive a Zoom link, click here.

Opening of Lakeview Courts in Middleton Postponed Until Spring 2026

Abigail Darwin — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 05:28:48 GMT

You may recall that back in February 2025, I had written a Pickleblog about 6 new pickleball courts coming to Lakeview Park in Middleton that were expected to open in October 2025. Unfortunately, however, during initial excavation of the project site, unsuitable soil conditions were identified. Remediating this issue will include removing peat and installing granular backfill to establish a stable foundation for the new court infrastructure. Only after this work is completed can construction on the courts begin.

Due to the required soil remediation and the seasonal limitations of specialized court surfacing, the overall project schedule has been adjusted. Final completion is now anticipated in spring 2026.

Once completed, the courts will be located at Lakeview Park, 6300 Mendota Ave, Middleton, WI, 53562. To see a map and copy of the Site Redesign Plan, click here. Note that there will be space for spectator seating next to the courts.

You can stay apprised of the latest construction status of the courts by clicking here.

Losing Weight Playing Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 21:41:35 GMT

Have you ever wondered whether you can lose weight playing pickleball? The answer is a qualified “yes” – as long as you play at a moderate-intensity level a couple times a week and combine it with a healthy diet. This author speaks from both research and personal experience, insofar as I have lost 70 pounds playing pickleball and eating well over the past year. Let’s delve into a little more detail into how you, too, can use pickleball to effectively shed a few extra pounds.

First, let’s explore the question of how often you should play pickleball if you want to lose weight. Medical experts recommend engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to manage or reduce weight. Breaking this down, playing pickleball for two-to-three hours per week can help you achieve this goal.

Of course, the exact number of times per week you should play pickleball for weight loss can vary depending on factors like your current fitness level, weight loss goals, and overall lifestyle. If you're just starting out, aim for two hours of pickleball per week and gradually increase your playing time as your fitness improves. Remember, consistency is key, so it's important to find a playing schedule that you can stick to long-term.

At this point, you might be wondering how many calories you can expect to burn per hour of play. The good news is that pickleball burns a surprisingly high number of calories! An average adult woman weighing around 150 pounds can burn approximately 300-350 calories per hour playing moderate-intensity pickleball. Meanwhile, an average adult male weighing about 180 pounds can torch around 350-400 calories per hour.

There are several reasons why pickleball is such an effective calorie-burning activity:

1. Cardiovascular intensity: The game involves quick movements, rapid changes in direction, and sustained play, which keeps your heart rate elevated and promotes cardiovascular fitness. The constant movement also keeps your body engaged and your metabolism fired up.

2. Total body workout: Pickleball engages multiple muscle groups, from your legs and core to your arms and shoulders. This full-body engagement requires more energy and, in turn, burns more calories during play.

3. Social motivation: Pickleball is often played in doubles format, providing an engaging social environment that encourages players to push themselves harder and stay active for longer periods. Research suggests that social support in physical activities can lead to increased effort and, ultimately, greater calorie burn.

4. Accessibility and consistency: Since pickleball is accessible to a wide range of ages and fitness levels, it’s easier to maintain a consistent playing schedule, which is key for weight loss success.

It is crucial, however, to combine your pickleball sessions with a healthy, balanced diet to maximize your weight loss efforts. Focus on a well-rounded diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Prioritize portion control, hydration, and mindful eating habits to fuel your body and optimize your pickleball performance. Tracking your caloric intake and macronutrients using a food tracking app such as MyFitnessPal, Noom, or Lose It! can help you stay on track and ensure you're creating the necessary caloric deficit to support your weight loss journey. You can also wear a Fitbit or Apple Watch to keep track of your daily steps and calories burned.

Pickleball is a fun and social way to stay active, but its unique combination of cardiovascular intensity, total body engagement, and accessibility also makes it a highly effective calorie-burning workout. By consistently incorporating pickleball into your weekly routine, you can create a significant caloric deficit and pave the way to weight loss success. Best of all, it is so much fun, that you may even forget you are exercising! So, grab a paddle, hit the court, and watch the pounds melt away as you embark on this exciting and healthy adventure!

Keep pickling!

CAPA Board Election Results and Composition

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 22:38:34 GMT

The Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) recently held elections, and three new board members were elected to replace three directors whose terms were expiring this year. The new board members are:
Kristina Amelong
Jimmy E Cheffen Jr., and
Weijun Cheng
They will serve two-year terms and will be replacing departing board members Mick Viney, Jill Jorstad, and Joanne Crapisi. Thank you to Mick, Jill, and Joanne for your many years of service! And congratulations to our new incoming board members!

Current CAPA Board President, Kevin McPherson, ran unopposed this year and was also reelected for another term.

Five additional members of the Board of Directors who were not up for election this year are:
Shelley Reynolds (current Vice-President)
Tony Greig (current Treasurer)
Mark Blitz
Jim Halberg
Michael Wedge

These board members will be up for election in Fall 2026.

Baird CAPA Cup Brackets That Were Rained Out Will Be Rescheduled

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 23:34:29 GMT

The Baird CAPA Cup Pickleball Tournament was held August 15-17, 2025. As you may know, however, most of the brackets that were scheduled to be held on Saturday, August 16^th ended up being cancelled due to rain. The Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) has decided that it would like to schedule a make-up event for all of those cancelled brackets.

The make-up event will be at Dill Dinkers on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 10 am to 10 pm with the following bracket times:

10:15am – 2:00pm Men’s 3.5 18+ Women’s 3.5 18+

2:15pm – 6:00pm Men’s 4.0 18+ Women’s 4.0 18+

6:15pm – 10:00pm Men’s 4.5 18+ Women’s 4.5 18+ Men’s 4.5 45+

There will be NO additional charges to play in these events. However, CAPA wants to have full brackets and needs to know if all impacted teams can play in the make-up event. If you were a member of an affected team, you should have received an email asking you to click this link and respond by August 31, 2025, with an update on your team’s registration. Impacted teams should respond and let the organizers know whether your team can play or not, or whether only one member of your team can play but will bring a different partner.

Good luck to all the participants!

Pickleball Kingdom is Coming to Sun Prairie!

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:42:00 GMT

Pickleball Kingdom will be opening a new indoor pickleball facility in Sun Prairie in mid-December 2025! The new facility will be located at 463 Broadway Drive, Sun Prairie, WI, 53590. It will have 12 courts and will also have a bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails. Pickleball Kingdom will offer three flexible membership plans, depending on the number of individuals in your household who will be playing there. All membership plans will be available in monthly or annual formats, and all will include unlimited court reservations and open play access. Non-members will still be able to reserve courts or participate in open play for a drop-in rate. As of the time of this writing, no pricing information was available. Click here to sign up for updates about Pickleball Kingdom-Sun Prairie!

Baird CAPA Cup Pickleball Tournament Still Needs Volunteers!

Abigail Darwin — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 17:32:51 GMT

The third annual Baird CAPA Cup pickleball tournament will take place on August 15-17, 2025, at Bakken Park in Cottage Grove, WI. Whether you are a pickleball enthusiast or just enjoy being part of a fun community event, the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) would love your help as a volunteer to help make the tournament run smoothly. Volunteering is also a great way to meet new people and enjoy the action up-close!

As of right now, here are the positions, times, and dates for which volunteers are still needed:

Friday, August 15
Scoring Assistant, 7:30am-11:30am
Runner, 3:00pm-7:00pm
Saturday, August 16
Runner, 11:00am-3:00pm
Runner/Teardown, 7:00pm-8:30pm
Court Monitor, 5:15pm-8:30pm
Sunday, August 17
Registration/Set-Up, 7:00am-8:30am
Court Monitor, 7:30am-11:30am
Photographer, 10:30am-11:30am

To see a more fulsome description of these positions, as well as to sign up for these roles, go to the Baird CAPA Cup Volunteer Sign-Up.

If you would like to play in the Baird CAPA Cup Tournament, you can still register until August 12, 2025, by clicking this link. Note that most brackets are full, although you can join a waitlist. The brackets that still have openings are as follows: Men’s Doubles 3.0-3.49 age 50+; Men’s Doubles 3.5-3.99 age 70+; Men’s Doubles 4.0-4.49 age 70+; Women’s Doubles 3.0-3.49 age 70+; Mixed Doubles 3.5-3.99 age 18+; Open Skill Level Parent/Grandparent/Child/Grandchild Doubles (Child 18+). You must be a CAPA member to play in the tournament. If you are not already a CAPA member but would like to join, go here. Scores WILL be reported to DUPR.

Keep pickling!

Registration for MSCR Pickleball Lessons and Open Play is Fast Approaching!

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 20:44:55 GMT

Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) recently released its Fall 2025 Program Guide. Registration for Beginner, Advanced Beginner, and Intermediate Pickleball through MSCR will begin on August 11, 2025, at 12:00 pm for Madison residents and on August 25, 2025, at 12:00 pm for non-residents. MSCR is an affordable way for Madison residents to play and learn pickleball.

There will be two fall sessions for pickleball, each running about 6 weeks long. The first will run from early September to mid-October, and the second session will run from the end of October to the first couple weeks of December.

Demand for pickleball is always high, and it's recommended that you preview the available classes and add them to your “Wish List” for quick access at registration time. Classes will fill up within 5 minutes (or sooner) of registration time, so you'll want to be ready to register right at noon on August 11. Be sure to sign up for the correct class(es).

Here's a direct link to the MSCR registration site, with only the fall 2025 pickleball classes listed.

DUPR 16 CAPA MLP League Wraps Up Its First Season!

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 14:53:37 GMT

This summer, for the first time ever, the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) organized and ran some Minor League Pickleball (MLP) leagues. This author was the volunteer in charge of organizing and running the DUPR 16 League, which played its regular season at Hitters Sportsplex in Middleton from June 18, 2025 – July 16, 2025, and had its Championship Playoffs at Hitters on July 23, 2025. The DUPR 16 League played at Hitters every week on Wednesdays from 6-8 pm. There were originally five teams in the DUPR 16 League, but only the top four were invited to play in the Playoffs for gold, silver, and bronze.

The final results were as follows:

·      1^st Place - Gold: Electric Pickle (Michelle Hebert, Andrea Boardman, Chris Boardman, Evan Tenebruso)
·      2^nd Place – Silver: Day Dinking (Lindsey Gregor, Abhishek Shankar, Jill Masana, Gino Ricchio)
·      3^rd Place – Bronze: The Mad Picklers (Dan Parenteau, Mary Thomson, Caitlin Kantosky, Anthony Petrasko)

The DUPR 13 League still has one more week to play in its regular season, and its Playoffs will happen Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 4-6 pm at Hitters. The DUPR 14 League has wrapped up its regular season, but its Playoffs will occur on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Hitters from 6-8 pm. All are welcome to come and watch. Spectators can attend for free!

Dill Dinkers is Opening Soon!

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 15:12:39 GMT

Dill Dinkers private indoor pickleball courts will be opening soon on Madison’s East Side! Dill Dinkers’ address is 5004 Tradewinds Parkway, Madison, Wisconsin, 53718. The opening date had initially been set for July 31, 2025, but due to a few final construction-related adjustments, the opening date had to be pushed back. A new opening date will be announced soon.

During the first week that the facility is open, you will be able to sign up to play for free by making a reservation in the Court Reserve app under “Dill Dinkers Madison”. After that, you can become a member at Dill Dinkers at the appropriate membership level (depending on anticipated usage), and note that additional court fees of anywhere from $7-$28 per person per 2-hour session may apply. Court fees vary depending on whether you are a member and whether you are there for open play or private court rental (assuming doubles (4 players)). You can receive $100 in free membership credits using promo code BLAKE. For more information about Dill Dinkers, visit their website.

Update (8/3/25): Dill Dinkers has announced that it will be opening on August 7, 2025! During the first week of August 7-August 13, everything will be free, but reservations are required. Free things include clinics, court rentals, open plays, ball machine sessions, and competitive events. You can make a reservation through the Dill Dinkers app (which you can download on Google Play or Apple Store) or in the Court Reserve app.

Dill Dinkers’ hours of operations will be daily from 8 am to 10 pm. Their phone number is (608) 747-3465, and their email address is madison@dilldinkers.com.

DUPR Implements New Algorithm

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 19:06:48 GMT

You may recall a recent Pickleblog from May 22, 2025, entitled, “Understanding DUPR.” However, much has changed since then. In early July 2025, DUPR Inc. released an update to its Dynamic Universal Pickleball Ratings (DUPR) algorithm so that now, DUPR ratings adjust based on a player’s performance compared to his/her expected score.

Starting July 8, 2025, a player’s rating changes based on how he/she performs relative to how he/she was expected to perform in a given match, not on whether he/she wins or loses a game. DUPR assigns every match an expected score before it is played, based on the ratings of the players involved. ‍If you score more points than expected, your rating will go up, even if you lose. If you score less than expected, however, your rating will go down, even if you win. Under the prior algorithm, the winning team’s rating would always go up and the losing team’s rating would always go down.

‍According to DUPR’s website, its algorithm takes four primary components into account when calculating a player’s ranking:
Performance vs. Expectation: Each match has an expected score that is based on player ratings. If a player scores more points than expected, his/her rating will go up. If he/she scores fewer points than expected, his/her rating will go down.
Type of Match: A club or tournament match influences a player’s rating more than a self-posted one.
Match Recency: Newer matches have a larger impact on a player’s rating than older ones.
Match Volume: Each match refines a player’s rating. More match history leads to more stable and accurate ratings.‍

For more information on the update to DUPR’s algorithm, go here.

Keep pickling!

Madtown Pickleball Open Returns for Fourth Straight Year

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 02:48:12 GMT

The Madtown Pickleball Open, Wisconsin's largest outdoor pickleball tournament, is scheduled to start tomorrow and will run from July 11-13, 2025. It will be played at Wyndham Hills Park, located at 675 North Heatherstone Drive in Sun Prairie.

The tournament started in 2022 and has experienced an astonishing 65% increase in participation since its debut. The tournament is open to players of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals (skill ranges 2.5-5.0), and features men's, women's, and mixed doubles events, with age divisions for 18+, 35+, 50+ and 65+. The tournament will be played round-robin style, and each participant is guaranteed at least four games.

Registration has closed for the event, but you are welcome to come and cheer on the players! A schedule of the brackets, dates of play and anticipated start times can be found by clicking here.

Barneveld Gets Two New Pickleball Courts!

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:02:54 GMT

On June 8, 2025, Memorial Park in Barneveld, WI, was reopened after a significant renovation, and, among other features and amenities, it now boasts a full-sized basketball court that is also multi-marked for two pickleball courts. The multi-sport court is available to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, but it can also be reserved for $10/hr. Memorial Park is located at County Hwy ID, Barneveld, WI, 53507.

New Outdoor Pickleball Courts Coming to Poynette!

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:40:22 GMT

Two new dedicated outdoor pickleball courts will soon be coming to Poynette. They will be built in Old Settlers Park, located at 100 Old Settlers Trail, Poynette, WI, 53955. As of early June 2025, the project had been sent out for bids, with the intention of having the work completed by the end of September or early October 2025. For more information, contact the Poynette Parks & Recreation Commission.

Improving Your Serve with the CAPA Pickleball Resale Program

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 20:10:04 GMT

One of the best ways to improve your pickleball serve is through practice and repetition. Being able to bring many balls with you to use for serve practice can cut down on the amount of time you spend chasing and picking up balls. But let’s face it, pickleballs can get expensive if you want to buy them in bulk quantities at most sporting goods stores.

This is one way in which being a member of the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) can benefit you and help you save money. Specifically, if you are a CAPA member, you can buy Franklin X-40 pickleballs at a discount from certain CAPA members who regularly buy pickleballs in bulk and resell them to other CAPA members at a discount. The discounted price for pickleballs under the resale program is 3 pickleballs for $6, 6 pickleballs for $10, and 13 pickleballs for $20. (To clarify, even though the balls are being “resold,” they are, in fact, brand new!)

For a list of the individuals in CAPA from whom you can buy discounted pickleballs, click here.

CAPA to Run a Singles Pickleball League!

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:27:57 GMT

Are you looking to play some singles pickleball? The Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) will be running its first ever full-court singles pickleball league! The league is for players who are self-rated at skill levels 3.5-4.25. Scores will not be entered into DUPR. The league will play on Wednesdays at Hitters SportsPlex in Middleton from 4-6 pm and will run from June 25 through July 30. You must be a member of CAPA to play in the league. If you are not already a member of CAPA, you can join by clicking here. The cost to join CAPA is $15 per year. There is no additional cost to join the league. When you play each week, you will just have to pay Hitters the cost to use their courts. It is $11.50 for two hours with a punchcard or $15 without one.

If you would like to join the singles league, you should first download the Pickleheads app and create an account. Then click this link to join the sessions you would like to play in! Keep pickling!

Full-Court Singles vs. Doubles Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 22:44:46 GMT

When it comes to pickleball, there’s more than one way to play the game. You can play one-on-one (singles) or two-on-two (doubles). Singles and doubles games each offer unique challenges and strategies, so understanding the differences can help improve your overall skills, no matter which version you prefer. Let's delve into the primary nuances of singles versus doubles pickleball and briefly discuss how they affect gameplay.

Calling the Score

One of the key differences between singles and doubles pickleball relates to how you call the score.

In doubles pickleball, you call the score as three numbers: my team’s score; the opposing team’s score; my server number.
In singles, however, since you are the only server for your team, you only call the first two numbers as the score (my team’s score; the opposing team’s score).

The scoring system itself is the same, however, between singles and doubles. That is, in both types of games, a standard game goes to 11 points, and you have to win by 2 points.

Serving

Singles and doubles pickleball also differ when it comes to serving. Here’s how:

In doubles, both players on a team get a chance to serve before the opposing team can serve (except in the very first round of a game where only one player has a chance to serve until the team loses the rally). So, in almost every round of doubles, the first server serves from the right side of the court. If their team scores a point, they switch sides with their partner and serve from the left side. When the first server loses the serve, because their team lost a rally, their partner takes over and serves from the side they happen to be standing on, and they keep serving until their team loses the rally.
In singles, however, you serve from the right side of the court when your score is even, and the left side when it's odd. Each server only gets one chance to serve until they lose the rally. This is true in every round of the game, not just the very first round.

Strategy and Court Positioning

Singles pickleball relies heavily on speed, agility, and endurance. With only one player on your team, you have more court space to cover, so playing close to the baseline and maintaining a strong defense is crucial. Your shots must be precise, as the slightest mishit could give your opponent a scoring opportunity. You also generally want to stay in the middle of the court to be able to get shots that are sent to you anywhere on the court. However, as a general matter, you want to send shots to your opponent that are along the sidelines of their half of the court, and often to their backhand.

Doubles pickleball is more about teamwork, communication, and strategy. Court positioning is key—each player must cover their designated side, while moving in sync to create an impenetrable defense. Offensive strategies in doubles often include lobs, overheads, and put-away shots at the non-volley zone, forcing the opponents to make errors. Also, in doubles, you and your partner are often trying to send shots down the middle on the other side of the net in order to confound the opposing team. You and your partner must make sure that whomever has the forehand is covering the middle of the court on any given point, but you also have to ensure that the sidelines are covered, too.

Gameplay Dynamics

In singles pickleball, games are fast-paced and intense, as you need to return every shot and outmaneuver your opponent. Pickleball singles players often excel at shot selection and placement, keeping opponents off-balance with angled groundstrokes and volleys or strategic drops.

Doubles pickleball, on the other hand, is more about patience and teamwork. Players must work together to exploit opponents’ weaknesses, alternating between aggressive offense and strategic defense.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer the intense one-on-one action of singles or the team dynamics of doubles, pickleball offers something for everyone. By understanding the differences between singles and doubles play, you can develop the skills and strategies needed to excel on the court, no matter which version you choose.

2025 Madtown Pickleball Open Seeks Volunteers!

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 29 May 2025 16:41:10 GMT

The 2025 Madtown Pickleball Open pickleball tournament is scheduled to take place at Wyndham Hills Park in Sun Prairie this summer from July 11-13. The organizers of the tournament have reached out to the Capital Area Pickleball Association and to me, your humble Pickleblog writer, to ask if we might be able to provide a few volunteers to help out in various capacities at the tournament.

In exchange for your willingness to volunteer, you will receive the following perks:

One waived bracket fee for this year’s tournament ($15 value)
(credited after volunteer shift completion)
A volunteer shirt & swag bag
Complimentary snacks and hydration

Now that I have your attention, here are the volunteer roles that the tournament organizers need help with on all three days of the tournament:

General Float: Assist tournament directors in organizing, tracking, and executing athlete awards. Temporarily relieve court monitors for bathroom or water breaks. Deliver water and help keep water jugs full for athletes and volunteers.
Court Monitor: Make sure scores are entered correctly and submitted after each match, provide new balls upon request, keep pace of play going by limiting excessive warm-up or standing around time, ensure athletes are on the correct courts once they arrive, etc.

To sign up for your preferred role(s) and shift(s), click this link.

Keep pickling!

Understanding DUPR

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 22 May 2025 20:59:21 GMT

DUPR stands for Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating and is designed to help players compare their pickleball-playing abilities relative to those of other players. A DUPR rating is based on actual match results, not guesswork.

The DUPR rating scale goes from 2.0 (beginners) to 8.0 (pickleball experts). As you improve, your rating climbs higher, serving as a tangible measure of progress.

DUPR uses a complex algorithm to determine your skill rating. DUPR has disclosed certain elements that go into calculating its ratings, however. These include:

Match Results: DUPR analyzes your wins and losses over time to calculate your rating, with more recent wins and losses being weighted more heavily than older ones. Also, every time you win a game, your DUPR rating will go up, and every time you lose a game, your DUPR rating will go down.
Opponent Strength: DUPR factors in the skill level of your opponents, so if you win against tougher competition (players rated at or above you), your rating will be boosted higher, and if you lose against a significantly weaker opponent, your rating will drop lower than it otherwise would.
Partner Strength: DUPR factors in the skill level of your partner when determining your DUPR rating, whether you win or lose a match.
Match Type: DUPR takes into account whether you are playing in a tournament or recreational play, assigning greater weight to tournament matches.
Score Margins: DUPR takes score margins (meaning the amount by which you won or lost a match) into account when assigning a given weight (up or down) to a particular match. Winning by a large margin increases your rating more than a tight match.
Frequency of Play: Consistently playing more matches over time leads to a more accurate and reliable rating. Players with more matches will see less fluctuation in their ratings compared to those with fewer matches.

The increasing use of DUPR in tournaments and even recreational leagues is based on the belief that more consistent and widespread use of DUPR can result in:

Fair and balanced play, helping players find equally skilled opponents for truly competitive games.
Better ability to track growth and progress as your DUPR rating steadily improves over time.

Now that you are ready to fully embrace the DUPR rating system and dive headfirst into this exciting world, you will have to create an account (if you don’t already have one). To create a DUPR account:

Visit the DUPR website at dupr.com or download the DUPR app from your favorite app store.
Click "Sign Up" and enter your personal information, including your name, email address, and phone number.
Verify your account via the confirmation email or text message.
Note that your default DUPR rating when you first set up an account will be 3.5.

Once you have a DUPR account, you will want to start entering scores to get a more accurate rating for yourself! Sometimes, tournament directors, league organizers, or club managers will do this for you automatically. If you want to enter scores manually during recreational play, however, here is how you would go about it:

First, make sure all players are okay with having game scores entered into DUPR. It can be a sensitive subject for some players, so please approach the topic with caution.

o Note that for you to be able to enter the game scores into DUPR, all players must have a DUPR account.

Assuming everyone is onboard with the idea:

o   Log in to your DUPR account on the website or app.
o   Add your match results by clicking "New Match." Enter your opponent's name, match score, and other details. Your opponents will then be prompted to verify the scores.
o   DUPR will then calculate your (and everyone else’s) rating based on the data provided.

With your DUPR account and rating now set up, you will be equipped to play in most leagues and tournaments out there! Get ready to embrace the journey, challenge yourself, and grow as a player. Happy pickling!

CAPA Logo Apparel Online Store is Now Open!

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 12 May 2025 20:46:48 GMT

The Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) is excited to announce that it now has an online store that is open for apparel orders featuring CAPA’s official logo!

A great selection of clothing is available, including:

Short and long sleeve T-shirts
Full-zip lightweight sweatshirts for women
¼-zip sweatshirts for men
Shorts
Caps

Orders placed by Saturday, May 18th will be ready for pickup or home delivery by June 10th.

If you choose to pick up your order, you can do so for free at Top Promotions, located at 8831 South Greenview Drive in Middleton.

If you prefer to have your order shipped directly to your home, shipping fees will apply.

To show your CAPA pride, click here to place your order today!

Keep pickling!

Outdoor Pickleball Court Reservations

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 09 May 2025 16:54:34 GMT

Are you tired of arriving at your favorite outdoor public pickleball courts with friends you want to play with, only to find that all the courts are taken? Did you know that you can reserve some of the outdoor public courts to ensure that you have a court when you arrive? Not all the public courts let you do this, and sometimes there is a difference in cost for residents versus non-residents, but here are some parks where you can reserve a court in advance:

Middleton:

· Taylor Park: 5280 Bishops Bay Parkway

Reservation Website: https://middleton.recdesk.com/Community/Facility?type=14

Cost: $5.00 for Middleton residents, and $7.50 for non-residents for 2-hour time blocks.

Additional Information: Courts 1-4 are available to reserve in 2-hour time blocks. Reservations can be made 5 days in advance now through the end of October 2025.

Fitchburg:

· McGaw Park: 5236 Lacy Rd.

Reservation Website: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/fitchburg/reservation/landing/search?locale=en-US&resourceType=0&equipmentQty=0&equipmentEventTypeIds=20&facilityEventTypeIds=20

Cost: $10 for Fitchburg residents, and $15 for non-residents for 1-hour time blocks.

Additional Information: Courts 2-8 are available to rent. Reservations can be made 7 days in advance now through the end of October 2025.

Verona:

· Harriet Park: 414 Mary Lou St.

Reservation Website: https://secure.rec1.com/WI/verona-wi/catalog

Cost: Free for Verona residents, and $10 for non-Verona residents for 1-hour time blocks.

Additional Information: Courts 1-3 are available to reserve. Reservations can be made for the same day, now through August 2025. Non-residents can reserve up to 2 hours in one day, 2 days a week. Residents can reserve up to 3 hours in one day, 3 days a week.

· Veteran’s Park: 113 Lincoln St, Verona, WI 53593

Reservation Website: https://secure.rec1.com/WI/verona-wi/catalog

Cost: Free for Verona residents, and $10 for non-residents for 1-hour time blocks.

Additional Information: Courts 1-6 are available to reserve. Reservations can be made for the same day, now through August 2025. Non-residents can reserve up to 2 hours in one day, 2 days a week. Residents can reserve up to 3 hours in one day, 3 days a week.

Cross Plains:

· Baer Park: 2620 Church St.

Reservation Website: https://crossplains.activityreg.com/selectfacility_t2.wcs

Cost: $10 for Cross Plains residents and $20 for non-residents for 2-hour time blocks.

Additional Information: Courts 1-4 are available to reserve year-round. Reservations can be made for the same day.

Madison:

· Garner Park: 333 S Rosa Rd.

Reservation Website: https://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/pickleball

Cost: $6.00 for both Madison residents and non-residents for 1-hour time blocks.

Additional Information: Courts 2-6 at Garner Park are available to reserve year-round. Same-day reservations are available.

Note that there are also several Madison parks with tennis courts that are lined for pickleball that you can reserve. These include:

· Brittingham Park (829 W Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53715)
· Door Creek Park (7035 Littlemore Dr, Madison, WI 53718)
· Elver Park (1250 McKenna Blvd, Madison, WI 53719)
· Heritage Heights Park (701 Meadowlark Dr, Madison, WI 53714)
· Kennedy Park (5202 Retana Dr, Madison, WI 53714)
· Nakoma Park (3801 Cherokee Dr, Madison, WI 53711)
· Norman Clayton Park (6402 Piping Rock Rd, Madison, WI 53711)
· Northland Manor Park (902 Northland Dr, Madison, WI 53704)
· Olbrich Park (3527 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53714)
· Reindahl Park (1818 Portage Rd, Madison, WI 53704)
· Reynolds Park (810 E Mifflin St, Madison, WI 53703)
· Richmond Hill Park (6117 Cottontail Trl. Madison, WI 53718)
· Tenney Park (402 N Thornton Ave, Madison, WI 53703)
· Walnut Grove Park (202 N. Westfield Rd. Madison, WI 53717)
· Waunona Park (5323 Raywood Rd, Madison, WI 53713)
· Westhaven Trails Park (3020 Cimarron Trail, Madison, WI 53719)
· Westmorland Park (4114 Tokay Blvd, Madison, WI 53711)
· Wexford Park (1201 N Westfield Rd, Madison, WI 53717)

To reserve a court at any of these Madison parks, you would go to https://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/pickleball. The cost would still be $6 for one hour of play.

If you know of any other outdoor public pickleball courts that allow online reservations in the Greater Madison/Dane County Area, please feel free to post that information in the comments.

Keep pickling!

Summer Youth Pickleball in Sun Prairie Continues for a Second Straight Summer!

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 18:42:58 GMT

Is there a middle schooler or high schooler you know who would like to play pickleball this summer? From June 10-July 29, every Tuesday evening, there will be youth pickleball happening at the Wyndham Hills Courts in Sun Prairie! Middle schoolers (6-8 grade) will play on Tuesdays from 6-7:30 pm, and high schoolers (9-12 grade) will play afterwards, from 7:30-9 pm! It will be a combination of learning skills and playing games. Prior racket sport experience is preferred but not required. Registration is free! More information can be found in the Sun Prairie 2025 Rec Connection.

Registration is open to everyone! You don’t have to live in Sun Prairie! Parents and guardians can initially register their kids at https://rec.cityofsunprairie.com/1085/Parks-Recreation-Forestry. After the first week, registration for subsequent weeks will be handled through playtimescheduler.com.

Happy pickling!

Pickleball Courts Coming to Vilas Park…Someday…

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 21:11:52 GMT

Madison residents may recall that six tennis courts closed in May 2024 at Vilas Park. This was due to the city’s risk manager deeming them unsafe for play, due to significant cracking and weed growth. The courts there currently have no nets, and fencing prevents anyone from entering.

However, pickleball players (and tennis players) should take heart, because the courts are scheduled for full demolition and replacement! In fact, the Vilas Park master plan calls for the six prior tennis courts to be replaced with four tennis courts, four dedicated pickleball courts, and a basketball court as part of a new outdoor sport complex (the existing basketball court would be removed).

There is, unfortunately, no timeline as of yet being contemplated for completion of the Vilas Park master plan. Before the Vilas Park master plan can be implemented, the cultural resources plan will have to be approved by the Madison Park Commission, according to Madison Parks Public Information Officer, Ann Shea. The planning, design, and construction work for any improvements at Vilas Park will follow the guidelines identified in the cultural resources plan.

MLP-Style Leagues Are Coming to CAPA and Madison!

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 17:08:26 GMT

Many pickleball players are enthusiastically embracing Minor League Pickleball, the latest exciting format for league and tournament competition! Minor League Pickleball (MLP) is an innovative round-robin team competition where groups of 4 players (2 women and 2 men) are broken into divisions (based on their combined DUPR rating) to compete against each other in four games (2 gendered, 2 mixed). More information about MLP can be found here.

Previously, Madison did not have anything like MLP. Those who were interested in this style of play had to travel to other cities, including Lake Geneva, WI, or Loves Park, IL. Things are about to change this summer, though!

In partnership with the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA), there will be three MLP-inspired pickleball leagues happening this summer on (probably) Monday, Tuesday, and (definitely) Thursday evenings at Pickle Pro Courts at 2907 North Sherman Avenue in Madison and at Hitters Tennis and Pickleball Club at 3170 Deming Way in Middleton. The leagues will be DUPR 12, 14, and 16 (meaning that all players’ DUPR levels on a given team cannot substantially exceed 12, 14, or 16 when added together).

The leagues will be for CAPA Members only. Links to register for the leagues will go out to CAPA members in early-to-mid May. If these leagues sound like fun and you are not currently a CAPA member, there has never been a better time to join! The cost to join CAPA is only $15/year. You can join CAPA by clicking here. Keep pickling!

New Indoor Courts May Be Coming to Madison!

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 23:13:14 GMT

Madison may soon be getting two new indoor pickleball facilities! At an April 7, 2025 meeting, the Madison Plan Commission heard two requests to approve conditional uses for new indoor pickleball facilities to move forward, one on the east side and one on the west side of the city.

Dill Dinkers: 5004 Tradewinds Parkway, Madison, WI, 53718

This indoor pickleball facility would go into a portion of an existing multi-tenant industrial building on Madison’s east side. This pickleball facility would contain 10 courts, office space, and a retail shop. It would occupy over 26,000 square feet of the building. The site would have 65 parking stalls and there would also be street parking available along Tradewinds Parkway. In addition, this facility would also be accessible by bike and bus. The proposed hours of operation would be seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. If all goes according to plan, this facility is expected to open in September 2025.

Court and Cork: 8701 Blackhawk Rd., Madison, WI, 53717

This indoor pickleball facility would be constructed from scratch on Madison’s west side. This facility would be a one-story, 31,000 square-foot building. There would be 10 indoor courts and one outdoor court. It would also contain a restaurant-tavern (with a full bar) inside the building, as well as an outdoor eating area located along Blackhawk Road. A parking lot with 76 stalls would be located behind the building. The indoor and outdoor pickleball courts would be open seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The restaurant-tavern would be open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, and the outdoor eating area would have the same operating hours as the pickleball courts. If all goes according to plan, the building is expected to be substantially completed by Summer 2025.

Pickles and Beer Returns to McGaw Park This Friday!

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 15:03:27 GMT

Assuming the weather cooperates, the first outdoor Pickles and Beer of the 2025 Pickleball Season will be at McGaw Park this Friday, April 4, from 4:30 pm – 8 pm. McGaw Park is located at 5236 Lacy Rd, Fitchburg, WI, 53711.

Pickles and Beer is a social gathering of pickleball players of all ages and ability levels that meets every Friday night of the year. During the warm-weather months, the event is held outdoors at McGaw Park in Fitchburg, and during the cold-weather months, it is held indoors at Princeton Club East in Madison.

Pickles and Beer was started in 2022 by Erin and Dan Schettler, who have graciously volunteered their time to run the event for three years now! Pickles and Beer is jointly supported by both the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) and the City of Fitchburg. You don’t have to be a member of CAPA or a resident of Fitchburg to attend.

Each week, the event draws anywhere from approximately 40-100 pickleball players. If you would like to attend, you are encouraged to RSVP in advance on playtimescheduler.com, but doing so is not required. Feel free to just show up! Pickles and Beer provides an excellent opportunity to meet and mix with other players socially and play some pickleball! Picnic tables are provided, but table seating is limited, so feel free to bring your own lawn chair or canvas chair to sit on. Please also feel free to bring and share beverages and snacks (which should be consumed outside the court area).

Once you arrive, you will see a whiteboard with dry erase markers in different colors attached to the court fence. The whiteboard is divided into many boxes. The different colors of markers correspond to different levels of player ability. You just write your name in a box with other players of similar ability levels, and as soon as a court frees up, you go out and play a single game to 11 (win by 2) with the other folks whose names are written in your box. Since all 8 courts are used for Pickles and Beer (and since 4 additional courts are expected to be added at McGaw Park this summer), new players move on and off courts fairly quickly. This prevents anyone from getting too bored sitting out. But, while you are sitting out, you can eat, drink, and mingle with new friends!

So, please consider this your invitation to join us at a Pickles and Beer event at McGaw Park on a Friday this spring or summer. I can practically guarantee that after you come to one, you will come to more! Keep pickling!

Playing Quiet Pickleball: The Gamma Librarian Foam Ball

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 19:02:36 GMT

As pickleball continues to gain popularity, new innovations are emerging to cater to the evolving needs and interests of players. One such innovation is the foam pickleball, and the current best-selling foam pickleball on the market is the Gamma Librarian Foam Pickleball. This ball is designed to mimic the size, weight, and bounce of a traditional plastic pickleball but offers a quieter experience. Let's take a closer look at its features, pros, cons, and the types of players who might benefit from using it.

The Gamma Librarian Foam Pickleball is made of soft, high-quality foam, offering a unique playing experience compared to standard plastic pickleballs. Its design ensures quieter and softer gameplay, making it an attractive choice for noise-sensitive environments, such as outdoor courts located close to houses, as well as indoor courts with soft wood flooring that could be damaged by hard plastic pickleballs. Let’s explore this ball’s pros and cons and see how well it stack up in terms of performance and player preferences.

Pros:

1. Quieter Play: The foam material significantly reduces noise, making it ideal for players who want to practice without disturbing neighbors or others nearby.

2. Versatility: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor play, the Librarian ball can be used on various court surfaces, including wood and concrete.

3. Lower Risk of Damage: Its soft foam construction minimizes the risk of damage to walls or floors when practicing indoors.

Cons:

1. Different Feel and Sound: The foam material may take some getting used to for players accustomed to the feel of traditional plastic pickleballs. Sometimes, the ball’s flight path is also different from a traditional plastic pickleball’s, depending on the amount of spin or wind. Players will also notice that they don’t hear that familiar “popping” sound when the ball hits the sweet spot on their paddle. It can take a while to get used to not having audio feedback to know if you hit the ball solidly.

2. Reduced Speed: The foam design may result in slower gameplay, which might not be preferred by competitive players.

3. Higher Price: As a specialized product, Gamma Librarian Foam Pickleballs are slightly more expensive than standard plastic pickleballs.

Which Players Might Prefer the Librarian Foam Pickleball?

1. Beginners: Its slower speed can be beneficial for new players who are still developing their skills and reaction time. It can also be useful to help new players who are working on their volley skills and coming up to the kitchen line more, because even if a volley is hit directly at them, the ball will not hurt if it makes contact with their body.

2. Indoor Players or Those Who Play in Densely-Packed Neighborhoods: Those who primarily play indoors or in noise-sensitive environments may better appreciate the ball's softer and quieter nature.

3. Casual Players: Those who enjoy a more relaxed game may find the Librarian ball's softer feel and slower speed appealing.

Which Players Might Not Prefer the Librarian Foam Pickleball?

1. Competitive Players: Those focused on speed and competitive play may not prefer the ball's slower speed and different feel.

2. Long-Timers and Traditionalists: Players who have been playing a long time and/or who value the feel and performance of traditional plastic pickleballs might not be inclined to switch to a ball made of a different, foam material.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Gamma Librarian Foam Pickleball offers a unique and versatile alternative to traditional, plastic pickleballs, particularly for players seeking quieter gameplay and a softer feel. While it may not suit competitive players or those looking for a more traditional gaming experience, it provides a novel option for those in noise-sensitive environments or who enjoy a more casual game. As pickleball continues to evolve, innovations like the Librarian ball help cater to a diverse range of players, audiences, and their preferences. Click here for more information on the Gamma Librarian Foam Pickleball. Keep pickling!

Pickleball Paddle Erasers

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 21:57:49 GMT

If you are a pickleball enthusiast, you understand the importance of maintaining your equipment to ensure peak performance on the court. One often-overlooked aspect of paddle maintenance is cleaning the paddle surface, where residue from the ball and ground can accumulate over time. Depending on the material of which your paddle is constructed, a paddle eraser may be the best tool to keep your paddle clean and functioning like new.

When and Why to Use a Paddle Eraser

Over time, tiny plastic and dirt particles from pickleballs and the courts can build up on your paddle's surface, leading to reduced spin and control. A paddle eraser helps remove this residue, restoring your paddle's texture and improving your ability to generate spin. It is a good idea to use a paddle eraser regularly, especially if you play frequently or notice a decline in your paddle's performance.

How to Use a Paddle Eraser

To achieve the best results:

Place the eraser in the palm of your hand
Gently rub the eraser across the paddle’s surface
Do not press too hard or too fast. Just provide a few soft strokes of the eraser across the paddle face to clean it.
Use your hand or a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe away any leftover residue

Repeat as needed.

What Type of Paddles Are Compatible with a Paddle Eraser?

Paddle erasers are most suitable for use on raw carbon fiber pickleball paddles that do NOT contain paint grit. If your paddle contains paint grit, using a paddle eraser would likely remove the paint grit and thereby reduce your ability to add spin to the ball. If you are unsure about your paddle's compatibility with a paddle eraser, consult the manufacturer's guidelines or ask a pickleball equipment expert. Many carbon paddle manufacturers now make erasers that are specifically designed for their own paddle brands (e.g., Engage, CRBN, Onix, etc.).

Materials Used in Paddle Erasers

Paddle erasers are typically made of a blend of rubber materials, designed to remove residue without damaging your paddle's surface. Some erasers feature a combination of smooth and textured surfaces for more thorough cleaning, while others may have ergonomic shapes for comfortable handling.

Are Paddle Erasers Safe to Use?

When used correctly, paddle erasers are generally considered safe and effective for maintaining your pickleball paddle. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and apply gentle pressure when using the eraser to avoid damaging your paddle. Be sure to test out an eraser on the edge of your paddle face when you first use it to ensure that it does not damage or discolor your paddle.

Another Way to Clean Your Paddle

If you do not have a paddle eraser or do not own a raw carbon fiber paddle but still want to clean your paddle face, use a slightly damp, lint-free cloth. Pure water is just fine! Avoid using any household cleaners that can harm or leave a sticky residue on your paddle. Sticky residue will just cause more dirt and grime to accumulate on your paddle face the next time you are on the court, defeating the purpose of “cleaning it” at all.

Using the watered down, slightly damp, lint-free cloth, gently wipe your paddle face. This will remove any dirt that may have stuck to the paddle surface. It is also a good idea to wipe the edge guard of your paddle to ensure any excess dirt has not built up there either.

Conclusion

Cleaning your paddle and, if appropriate, using a paddle eraser is a simple yet effective way to maintain your gear and optimize your performance on the court. Keep pickling!

New Pickleball Courts in Windsor’s Community Park

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 13:43:18 GMT

Some new public pickleball courts opened recently in Community Park in Windsor, Wisconsin. Community Park now boasts a total of 5 pickleball courts, and they are beautiful! There are fences in between each of the courts, as well as a walkway that separates courts 1-2 from courts 3-5. In the walkway area, there are picnic tables and shade structures. The courts have nice windscreens, but unfortunately, the courts are not lit for night play. There is ample parking next to the courts, and restroom facilities are also located nearby. The address of Community Park is 6570 Pederson Crossing Blvd., Windsor, WI, 53532. All the nets are up already for the 2025 pickleball season, so feel free to hit the courts! Keep pickling!

When to Take Strategic Time-Outs in Pickleball Games During Tournament Play

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:47:48 GMT

Pickleball tournaments are exhilarating events where players showcase their skills, stamina, and strategic prowess. Amidst the high-stakes atmosphere, knowing when to take time-outs can significantly impact the outcome of a match. Let's delve into the importance of strategic time-outs and how they can help you maintain an edge over your opponents.

Understanding Tournament Time-Out Rules

In a typical pickleball tournament, each team is usually allowed a certain number of time-outs per game or match. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific rules of your tournament to avoid any misunderstandings or penalties. If the tournament is sanctioned by USA Pickleball, time-outs would follow the guidelines primarily set forth in Section 10 of the Official Rulebook. Generally speaking, under these rules, each team would be entitled to two one-minute time-outs for an 11- or 15-point game and three one-minute time-outs for a 21-point game. Players are generally asked to leave their paddles on the court before taking the time-out, with the player who is about to serve putting the ball next to his/her paddle. It is also a good idea for players to state the score in the presence of all other players and get agreement before taking a time-out so that there is no confusion when returning.

Reasons for Taking a Time-Out

Let’s start by noting that the Official Rulebook allows time-outs for apparel changes (2.G.4.), end changes (5.B.5.), medical reasons (10.B.), equipment malfunctions (10.D.) and extenuating circumstances (10.H.2.), for example, but those time-outs exceed the scope of this blog. In this blog, we are concerned with strategic time-outs only. To that end, let’s consider the reasons when it might make good strategic sense in a game to call a time-out:

1) Regrouping and Refocusing: If you or your partner seem to be losing focus, making unforced errors, or falling behind in the game, a time-out can help your team regroup and refocus on your strategy.

2) Breaking Opponents' Momentum: If your opponents have just won several rallies or points in a row or generally seem to be gaining more confidence, a time-out can disrupt their rhythm and give your team an opportunity to take control of the game.

3) Discussing Strategy: Time-outs provide a chance for you and your partner to discuss tactics, analyze your opponents' weaknesses, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

4) Receive coaching: Pursuant to rule 13.G.1.j., coaching from someone other than your partner is only allowed during a time-out, so this is your opportunity to receive coaching from a trusted source, such as an actual coach, spouse, or bestie. Take advantage of that if you need and want it!

5) Physical and Mental Recovery: Pickleball matches can be physically and mentally demanding. Taking a time-out allows you to catch your breath, rehydrate, use a cooling towel, think calming thoughts, do yoga, discuss eating and drinking plans for after the tournament is over with your partner, and just generally regain your composure, so be sure to use those precious seconds and minutes judiciously!

Making the Most of Your Time-Out

1) Keep It Positive: Use the time-out to lift your spirits and those of your partner. Encourage each other and focus on your strengths. Remember that you and your partner are in the middle of a game at a tournament. Now is not the right time to start criticizing yourself or each other or to think about implementing a completely new skill or strategy that either of you has not already previously practiced multiple times. Stay positive and stick with what you know has worked successfully for your team in the past.

2) Communicate Effectively: Be clear and concise when discussing strategy with your partner. Make sure you are both on the same page before resuming play.

3) Visualize Success: Close your eyes and envision executing your strategy effectively and winning points. This mental rehearsal can boost your confidence and focus.

4) Listen to Your Body: Use the break to stretch, hydrate, put on a brace, apply a balm, take a pill, or otherwise address any physical discomfort that may be hindering your performance.

Remember, the strategic use of time-outs in a pickleball tournament can turn the tide of a match in your favor. By understanding the rules, recognizing the appropriate moments to take a break, and making the most of your time-out, you will be well-prepared to compete at your highest level. Keep pickling!

New Outdoor Pickleball Courts Coming Soon to a Community Near You!

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 16:46:25 GMT

Yesterday, there was a gathering of local Parks and Recreation Department leaders to discuss upcoming plans to build more outdoor pickleball courts in various communities around the Dane County area. Here is what I can report:

In Middleton, at Lakeview Park, the existing 12 tennis courts will be removed and replaced with 2 new tennis courts and 6 dedicated pickleball courts. The expected opening date for the new courts will be October 2025.
In Waunakee, 4 new dedicated pickleball courts will be constructed in Heritage Hills during Summer 2025. In addition, 2 new dedicated pickleball courts will be constructed in Kilkenny Farms West during Spring 2025.
In Columbus, 4 new dedicated outdoor pickleball courts will be built in Fireman’s Park, but construction and anticipated opening dates are currently TBD.

I can’t wait to try out all these new courts once they open!

Update on New Future Pickleball Courts in Madison’s Warner Park

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 21:25:11 GMT

Last March, I wrote a Pickleblog about new dedicated pickleball courts that would be coming to the City of Madison in the next couple years at Warner Park on Madison’s east side. Rico Goedjen, former Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) president, has been working with the Madison Parks Department on building plans for the new courts, and because of him, I am able to provide you, dear readers, with an update.

According to Goedjen, the pickleball courts are currently in the design phase, and the Parks Department will be sharing the plans once they are ready for public comment. The Parks Department is hopeful that construction can begin in late 2025, but they do not currently have a definitive timeline established. Due to some staff departures in the past year, the project is not progressing as quickly as they had initially hoped. Goedjen says that the Parks Department understands the need for more pickleball facilities in the city. A significant part of the funding for the Warner Park courts project will be coming from state grant money. The pickleball courts will be part of a larger development plan happening at Warner Park that can be viewed here. From the looks of things, it seems like the intention is to put in 8 dedicated pickleball courts, with lights for evening/night play. This author can hardly wait for the cement to start being poured!

Lobbing in Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 21:23:29 GMT

Lobbing in pickleball is a strategic move that can turn the tide of a rally, a point, and even a game when executed correctly. It involves hitting the ball high and deep into your opponents’ court, forcing them to retreat and giving you time to reposition. Here's how to master the lob, including the mechanics, target areas, and strategy.

Mechanics of a Successful Lob

Grip and Stance: Start with a continental grip, or “hammer grip,” which allows for better control and versatility. Stand facing forward, with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight balanced on the balls of your feet.
Swing Path: The key to a good lob is a smooth, upward swing. Begin your swing low and follow through high, aiming to lift the ball over your opponents’ reach. Use your legs to generate power, pushing off the ground as you swing.
Contact Point: Hit the ball out in front of your body, ensuring your paddle face is open to create the necessary lift. The contact should be gentle yet firm, focusing on control rather than power.
Follow Through: Your follow-through should be high and extended, guiding the ball's trajectory.

Click here and here for helpful instructional videos on how to hit successful lobs.

Target Areas

Successful lobbing forces your opponents to move back to the baseline, disrupting their positioning at the non-volley zone (NVZ) and opening up the court for your next shot. Avoid lobbing too short, as this can set up an easy overhead smash for your opponents. When sending up a lob, aim for the back third of your opponents’ court, ideally near the baseline. Aiming your lobs cross-court or toward your opponent’s backhand can also be great ideas, as doing so will give you more distance to work with and will make it easier to avoid a smash return, respectively.

When and When Not to Lob

While lobbing can be an effective strategy, it is important to use it appropriately and judiciously:

When to Lob:

Defensive Situations: Use a lob when you are under pressure and need time to recover. For example, if your opponent has sent an angled shot that has sent you running full tilt and has pulled you off the court wide, think about sending up a lob in response.

Offensive Situations: Consider lobbing when your opponents are close to the net, perhaps as part of a dinking rally at the NVZ, making it difficult for them to retreat quickly and return the ball. This is a helpful instructional video on offensive lobs.

Mixing Up Shots: Incorporate lobs to keep your opponents guessing and off-balance.

When Not to Lob:

Against Strong Smashers: Avoid lobbing if your opponents have a powerful overhead smash, as lobbing can backfire under such circumstances.
Opponents Are Back: Avoid lobbing if your opponents are already in the transition zone area or back by the baseline. Lobs will be most effective when your opponents are at the NVZ.
Recreational Play with Mobility-Impaired Opponents: Avoid lobbing if you are just playing for recreation (as opposed to tournament play) in scenarios where your opponents are mobility-impaired, such as if you know one of them recently had a hip replacement. Sending such players lobs to hit could cause them to get injured, and pickleball is intended to be about fun, so good sportsmanship dictates that you avoid lobbing in such situations.

Windy Conditions: Be cautious with lobs in windy conditions, as the wind can affect the ball's trajectory.

Overuse: Don't rely on lobbing too frequently, as it can become predictable and less effective.

Conclusion

Lobbing in pickleball is a skill that requires practice, precision, and strategic thinking. By mastering the mechanics, targeting the right areas, and understanding its purpose, you can add a valuable tool to your pickleball arsenal. Remember, the key to a successful lob is not just in the execution but also in knowing when to use it. Happy pickling!

Why You Should Join CAPA

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 23:18:16 GMT

The Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) was founded in 2016 as a non-profit membership association offering pickleball enthusiasts of all backgrounds and abilities the opportunity to improve their skills, compete, socialize, and have fun. CAPA is entirely run by many willing volunteers who guide activities that help its membership enjoy this great sport. CAPA supports pickleball communities within Dane County. Membership in the organization costs only $15 for a calendar year, and it comes with many benefits, including:

Year-round league play for levels 2.0+
Free and discounted Skills & Drills classes and pickleball clinics for all levels
Member-only tournaments
Discounted Franklin X40 pickleballs, through the CAPA Pickleball Purchase Program
Organized social events
5% discount at PickleballCentral.com
Member-only open plays at indoor facilities during the cold-weather months
The ability to meet and play with new people
CAPA grants for capital improvement or court enhancements that you can apply for to benefit your community
The opportunity to rent a CAPA-owned Lobster ball machine for $25 for up to 3 days

For more information on these member benefits, to learn more about CAPA, or to access a wealth of resources about pickleball in Dane County, please visit the CAPA website. To join CAPA, to renew your membership, or to edit your member profile, click here. Keep pickling!

Light vs. Heavy Pickleball Paddles

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:35:19 GMT

Are you a pickleball enthusiast struggling to choose between a light or heavy paddle? You're not alone! The weight of your paddle significantly impacts your game, affecting power, control, and maneuverability. This blog post will explore the pros and cons of light and heavy paddles, helping you find the perfect paddle weight for your playstyle.

Light paddles generally weigh about 7.2 ounces or less. Heavy paddles are those that weigh about 8.3 ounces or more. In case you are wondering, yes, there is such a thing as midweight paddles, and they generally weigh between 7.3 – 8.2 ounces. They combine the features of light and heavy paddles discussed below.

Light Paddles

Pros:

1) Quicker maneuverability for faster reactions at the net.

2) Less strain on joints, reducing the risk of injuries like tennis elbow.

3) Suitable for players prioritizing control and finesse shots.

Cons:

1) Require more power from the player for deep shots.

2) Can feel less stable during powerful exchanges or in very windy conditions.

Heavy Paddles

Pros:

1) Increased power for drives and smashes.

2) More stability during powerful shots and rallies and in windy conditions.

3) Ideal for aggressive players seeking to overpower opponents.

Cons:

1) Slower paddle movement, potentially reducing reaction time.

2) Increased strain on joints like the elbow, potentially leading to injuries.

3) Less control for precise shots and finesse play.

Which Paddle Weight Should You Choose?

Here are some factors to consider when deciding between a light and heavy pickleball paddle:

1) Playstyle: Aggressive players might prefer heavy paddles for power, while strategic players might opt for light paddles for finesse, agility, and control.

2) Physical Health: Players with pre-existing joint issues or concerns about injury may benefit from lighter paddles.

3) Experience Level: Beginners might prefer lighter paddles for easier maneuverability and control, while experienced players can choose based on their developed preferences and playstyle.

Remember, however, that it is always a good idea to demo different paddles with different weights whenever possible before committing to a purchase.

Happy pickling!

How to Hit Topspin in Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 22:56:36 GMT

Topspin is a valuable skill in pickleball that can greatly improve your game. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, mastering topspin allows you to hit the ball harder, while still keeping it within the bounds of the court. But how exactly do you generate topspin in pickleball? Here’s a guide to help you get started.

1. Understanding the Basics of Topspin

Topspin occurs when the ball rotates forward in the direction of its flight. The primary advantage of topspin is that it causes the ball to dip quickly, allowing you to hit the ball with more height over the net without worrying about it going long and out-of-bounds. Topspin also allows you to hit the ball with more control, consistency, and precision. As the ball rotates forward, it creates downward pressure, making it bounce higher and forward after hitting the ground, making timing the ball harder for your opponents.

To create topspin, you need to brush up on the back of the ball with an upward motion, while also generating forward momentum. This creates the forward spin on the ball as it travels through the air.

2. Grip: Finding the Right Hold

Your grip plays a key role in generating topspin. While the traditional continental grip can be used in pickleball, many players opt for a semi-western or western grip for topspin shots. The semi-western grip is popular because it allows you to easily brush up on the back of the ball while still maintaining a solid grip for stability and control.

To use the semi-western grip, place the base knuckle of your index finger against the third bevel of the paddle handle. This position will allow you to hit with the required angle for topspin. A more extreme western grip can also be used, but it is generally less common in pickleball due to its more extreme angle and less versatility. This website does a good job of illustrating how to hold a paddle with these different grips.

3. Stroke Mechanics: Generating the Right Swing Path

Generating topspin requires a specific swing path. Start by preparing your paddle behind your body, holding it low and close to the ground. As you begin your swing, focus on brushing up on the back of the ball, moving your paddle from low to high. The key is to make contact with the lower half of the ball while keeping the face of your paddle slightly closed.

Your follow-through is just as important as the initial swing. After making contact with the ball, your paddle should continue its upward motion, finishing high above your shoulder. This follow-through ensures that you’ve imparted enough spin on the ball and helps to maintain balance and control.

4. Footwork: Staying Balanced and Low

Footwork is critical when generating topspin, as it helps you position yourself correctly and maintain control. When preparing to hit a topspin shot, it’s essential to stay balanced by bending your knees and staying low to the ground. A low center of gravity allows you to generate more upward momentum with your swing.

Make sure your weight is on your back foot as you begin the swing, and transfer your weight to your front foot as you make contact with the ball. This weight shift helps add power to your shot while keeping the ball under control.

5. Practicing with Purpose

Like any skill in pickleball, hitting topspin takes practice. Start by focusing on your swing mechanics, ensuring that you are brushing up on the ball and following through properly. Practice with slower shots to refine your technique before moving on to faster balls or more intense game situations.

To help reinforce topspin, you can also practice with a wall or a partner, focusing on hitting the ball consistently with the correct spin. Over time, you will notice that your shots become more controlled, and you will be able to hit deeper, more aggressive shots that are harder for your opponent to return.

6. Using Topspin for Control and Variety

Topspin isn’t just about hitting hard; it’s about control. With topspin, you can confidently clear the net even when you are under pressure, and you can hit a variety of shots—whether it’s a deep groundstroke, an accelerated dink, or a sharp cross-court angled volley—while keeping the ball in play. The spin also makes your shots bounce higher, which can throw off opponents who are less comfortable with high bounces.

In doubles play, topspin can help you control the pace and placement of the ball, allowing your partner to be in a better position to attack or defend.

Conclusion

Hitting topspin in pickleball is a skill that, when properly executed, adds consistency and control to your game. By understanding the mechanics of the shot, adjusting your grip, and refining your footwork and swing, you can start to hit topspin with confidence. With enough practice, you will be able to use this powerful technique to make your shots more aggressive while keeping them safely in-bounds, giving you a major advantage over your opponents who may not know how to use topspin.

Here is a good video on YouTube for those who want to learn how to hit topspin.

McGaw Park Pickleball Court Expansion

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 17:17:19 GMT

McGaw Park’s existing pickleball courts will be expanded this year to include 4 additional pickleball courts to the east of the existing courts, and LED lighting will be installed for all 12 courts. New shade structures will also be added. Fencing will be installed around and in between the new courts, and the same plastic slats used on the existing courts will be utilized for the new courts to provide a wind barrier. According to the Fitchburg Park Commission, the project is expected to be completed October 1, 2025. McGaw Park is located at 5236 Lacy Road in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, 53711.

New Pickleball Rules for 2025

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:56:49 GMT

USA Pickleball has published its rulebook and rule changes for 2025, and below is a brief summary of the new rules you are most likely to notice.

Rules 4.B.3., 4.B.6., 4.F.1., 4.G.1., 4.J.1, and 12.B.1. (Rally Scoring)

Although USA Pickleball still retains traditional side-out scoring as the official method of scoring, it introduced rally scoring as an option for doubles. If rally scoring is used, only one player on a team (the player on the right side) can serve before a side out is declared. In addition, the game-winning point can only be scored by the serving player or team. USA Pickleball prohibits double-elimination doubles tournaments from using rally scoring.

The rally scoring option is only a provisional rule for 2025. After one year, the rule will be evaluated to determine whether it should be continued as provisional, changed, formally adopted, or removed.

Rules 9.B.1. and 9.H. (Volleying & Momentum)

The definition of volleying was modified such that a volley no longer begins with the swing of the paddle. It now starts when the player makes contact with the ball. Rule 9.H. further clarifies that although it is still acceptable for a player to volley a ball while their partner is standing in the kitchen, it would be a violation for the player volleying the ball (or anything they are wearing or carrying) to make contact with the partner who is standing in the kitchen during the act of volleying.

Rule 4.C.2. (Not Ready Signals)

Players on the receiving team can now use “verbal indicators” (like “wait” or “stop”) to notify the server that they are not ready after the server starts calling the score and before the ball is served. Previously, verbal (and non-verbal) signals were supposed to be ignored and the serve was to continue. “Not ready” non-verbal/visual signals (e.g., hand motions) will still be ignored by the server once the score begins being called, unless there is a hinder.

Rule 6.C.4. (Spectator Line Calls)

The language of the rule is changing from: “Spectators should not be consulted on any line call” to “Spectators shall not be consulted on any line call.” The goal behind the rule change is to let players know that not only should they not ask spectators for input on line calls, but they should also not accept any spectator input either!

Rules 13.D.1.a., 13.D.1.c., and 7.0. (Calling Faults)

Players are expected to now call a fault on their partner (not just themselves).

Players can still call service foot faults and non-volley zone faults on their opponents’ end of the court. However, the language of Rule 13.D.1.c. is changing from: “If there is any disagreement among players [about a called fault, a replay shall occur],” to “If there is any disagreement between teams [about a called fault, a replay shall occur].” This change in language clarifies that disagreement between partners is not grounds for a replay.

This ties in to new Rule 7.0 which provides that any disagreement between partners on a fault call will be decided to the benefit of their opponents. The general principle embodied in the new rule is that when partners disagree, they express doubt, and the benefit of that doubt should go to their opponents.

Rule 2.E.5.c. (Pickleball Paddle Autographs)

Players can now have autographs on their paddles, as long as it does not alter the feel of the paddle face. Previously, the rule only allowed Sharpie pen markings for identification purposes (e.g., name, signature, phone, email address). USA Pickleball made the rule change, because it recognized that there was no rational basis to allow the paddle owner’s signature but not the autograph of another person.

Rule 4.A.5. (Serving)

Players can now release the ball with their paddle, not just their hand. They have to let the ball roll off the face of the paddle using gravity only. Players are still not allowed to impart any spin on the ball upon the release.

Rule 13.G.4. (Tournament Penalty)

If at a tournament a player does something after a match while the player is still on the court that constitutes a Verbal Warning, Technical Foul, or Technical Warning, the Tournament Director can apply that penalty to the player’s next match at the tournament.

Rule 12.C.4.a. (Round Robin Scoring)

If a player or team withdraws, retires, or is forfeited from a round-robin tournament without a playoff, then that player’s or team’s match results will not count toward the standings of that round robin. The match results will count towards a player’s or team’s rating, however.

If a player or team withdraws, retires, or is forfeited from a round-robin tournament with a playoff, then that player’s or team’s match results will not count toward the standings of that round robin, and the player or team will not be eligible to move on to a playoff elimination draw. The match results will count towards a player’s or team’s rating, however.

Pickleblog is Now Also Available on Substack!

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:58:22 GMT

With the new year has come some changes for Pickleblog. Pickleblog will still be available here on the CAPA website, but it is now also available on Substack. This means that you can subscribe for free and receive a weekly blog post about your favorite topic (pickleball!) sent directly to your inbox.

Subscribing is easy! Simply go to abigailpickleball.substack.com, click "Subscribe," and enter your email address.

Happy New Year and keep pickling!

What to Look for When Buying Pickleball Safety Glasses

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 21:57:12 GMT

When it comes to pickleball, safety should always be a top priority. Given the speed at which the ball can travel and the potential for shots to accidentally hit your eyes, investing in quality eye protection is a must, even for casual players. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right pair? Here are some key features to look for when purchasing pickleball safety glasses:

Impact Resistance

Look for eyewear made from durable materials like polycarbonate, which can withstand high-velocity impacts without shattering. This will help protect your eyes from potential injuries and abrasions if your glasses get hit hard with a ball.

Anti-Fog and Ventilation

Pickleball games can get intense, and the last thing you want is your eyewear fogging up mid-game! Look for glasses with anti-fog coatings and ventilation holes to ensure clear vision at all times.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is key when it comes to pickleball eyewear. Lightweight frames, adjustable nose pads, and non-slip temple grips can help keep your glasses in place during play.

Lens Tint and Polarization

Depending on your playing environment, you may want to consider lens tints or polarization. For example, amber lenses can improve contrast in low light conditions, while polarized lenses reduce glare from the sun.

UV Protection

If you play outdoors, UV protection is essential. Opt for lenses that offer at least 99% UV protection to keep your eyes safe from harmful sun rays.

Conclusion

By keeping these features in mind, you can find the perfect pair of pickleball safety glasses that not only protect your eyes but also enhance your performance on the court. Remember, your health and safety are worth the investment!

The Pros and Cons of Wearing a Pickleball Glove

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 20:48:08 GMT

One question that sometimes arises among players is whether or not to wear a specialty pickleball glove. Let's delve into the pros and cons of utilizing this accessory.

Pros of Wearing a Glove:

Enhanced Grip: A well-fitted glove can provide a better grip on the paddle, especially in hot and humid conditions where hands may become sweaty. This can lead to better control and accuracy.
Protection: Gloves can offer some protection against blisters and calluses, especially for new players, those who don’t play often, or those with sensitive skin. They can also offer protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Warmth: In colder weather, a glove can help keep your hands warm, allowing you to play comfortably even when temperatures drop.

Cons of Wearing a Glove:

Reduced Feel: While gloves can enhance grip, they can also reduce your feel of the paddle, making you hold on to it too tightly and thereby potentially affecting your ability to hit softer, more delicate shots. It is important to note, however, that you can buy open-fingered gloves which some players claim provides better control.
Increased Sweat: Some players find that wearing a glove traps sweat on their hands, leading to discomfort and potential skin irritation.
Added Cost and Maintenance: Gloves are an additional expense, and you'll need to replace and clean them periodically, especially when they get dirty and worn out.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear a glove is a personal one. Consider your individual needs and preferences. If your primary reason for wanting to wear a glove is because of sweaty hands, consider alternatives like tacky overgrips, powder, and hand towels, since these items won’t reduce your feel of the paddle, potentially allowing you to hit shots with greater finesse. Above all, though, remember that in pickleball, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game! Keep pickling!

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Pickleball Paddle

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 19:42:08 GMT

As any player will tell you, a paddle is one of the most essential tools in pickleball. Under typical conditions, an average pickleball paddle will last anywhere from 1-3 years, depending how often you play and how well you care for your paddle. Taking good care of your pickleball paddle not only ensures optimal performance but will save you from spending money on more frequent and unnecessary replacements.

Here are some tips to help you keep your paddle in pristine playing condition for as long as possible:

Keep Your Paddle Clean: Regularly cleaning your paddle is important. Over time, the surface of your paddle, which is key for enabling you to put spin on the ball, can capture dirt, which will make the paddle smooth and less effective at spinning the pickleball. To clean your paddle, you can use a damp cloth, containing a mild soap and water solution, to wipe down the paddle surface. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface material. Be sure to wipe away any water residue and allow the paddle to fully air-dry.
Be Gentle with Your Paddle: Avoid hitting the paddle against hard surfaces like fences, the ground, or your partner’s paddle in a volley battle. The latter can be avoided by calling shots. In addition, avoid ever using your paddle as a crutch when bending down to pick up a ball. And, of course, never abuse your paddle if you are upset over a mistake.

Store Your Paddle Properly: Keep your paddle in a designated pickleball bag or case to protect it from scratches, dings, and impacts when not in use. You should also be sure to keep your paddle in a cool, dry place, and out of direct sunlight. An ideal storage location is the inside of your home. Be wary of leaving your paddle outside or in your car where it can be subject to extreme temperature fluctuations. Finally, be sure to always keep your paddle dry to prevent warping and other damage.

Inspect Your Paddle Regularly: Before and after each game, inspect your paddle for any signs of wear and tear, including cracks and delamination. Also check for loose edge guards or torn grips. If you notice any defects, address them right away to prevent further damage.

Use Protective Gear: Investing in a paddle guard or edge tape is a smart move. These protective accessories function as a barrier between your paddle and the court, reducing the likelihood of scratches and dents. They provide an affordable way to extend the life of your paddle and can even add a touch of personal style.

Replace Your Pickleball Grip: Pickleball grips lose tackiness, get holes, and otherwise wear down, which can make it more likely that the paddle will slip out of your hand during play and get damaged. Replacement grips are inexpensive, easy to put on, and come in a wide array of colors, providing another easy way to extend the life of your paddle, while customizing its appearance.

Long live your paddle!

Keep pickling!

How to Hit More Effective Pickleball Volleys

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 22:42:49 GMT

A “volley” in pickleball is a shot you hit out of the air before it bounces. As a refresher, remember that according to the Pickleball Official Rulebook, it is illegal to hit a volley while in the kitchen, and you also cannot end up in the kitchen as a result of your momentum from hitting a volley outside the kitchen. Also remember that the kitchen line is part of the kitchen, so make sure that when you are hitting volleys, you are standing behind the kitchen line.

Having said all that, let’s discuss some tips to help you hit more effective volleys:

Stand as close as possible to the kitchen line (without actually touching or crossing it) when hitting volleys to be as aggressive and put as much pressure on your opponents as you can.
Make sure to wait for volleys in “ready position.” There are differing opinions about what constitutes ready position. Some players prefer to hold their paddle in front of them in a neutral position, straight out and on edge. Others prefer to hold their paddle out in front of the middle of their stomach/chest area in a backhand default position, with their paddle perpendicular to the ground. Still other players prefer a paddle position that is somewhere in between these two positions. Just be sure to choose a consistent paddle position that entails having your paddle out in front of your body in a way that ensures you will be ready for any type of volley that comes your way!
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. This keeps you balanced, but not so balanced that you don’t want to move, if necessary!
Keep your shoulders square with the net and keep your chest facing the net. Don’t turn to the side when hitting volleys.
Keep your knees slightly bent. This has many consequences, not the least of which is that it takes strain off your back. Another interesting consequence of doing this is that even low volleys seem popped up, so you will want to be more aggressive when hitting them!
Hit volleys from the shoulders/biceps, which are more powerful, instead of the forearms and wrists, which are weaker.
Do not take a big backswing before hitting a volley.
Be sure to hit the ball out in front of you. This will ensure you have more power and control over your shots.
Use a continental grip. The continental grip was called the “hammer grip” for many years, because it entails holding your paddle as if you were gripping a hammer. Holding your paddle in this manner ensures you will have the same amount of wrist strength for both forehands and backhands.
Use a firm grip for hitting hard, deep volleys, and a lighter, looser grip for hitting softer volleys. Mix up how hard your hit your volleys to keep your opponents guessing (and running)!
Keep your bodyweight on the balls of your feet.
Keep your feet still while hitting your volleys. This will give you a solid base of support to hit from.
If you need to move to get to a ball before hitting it, side shuffle laterally on the front balls of your feet.
Place your volleys with intention! Aim them at your opponents’ feet, your opponents’ backhands, in between them, and also consider using angles.
Remember to hit out and down, not just down, so as to avoid hitting volleys into the net.
Practice hitting volleys against a wall when you are not playing games. This will improve your reaction time.

Happy pickling!

Pickleball Kingdom, Indoor Pickleball Facility with 17 Courts, to Open Soon in Menomonee Falls

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:31:47 GMT

A 60,000-square-foot indoor pickleball facility with 17 courts, including a stadium court, as well as a bar and grill, will be opening in late January 2025 in Menomonee Falls, WI. Their address will be N58 W14900 Shawn Circle, Menomonee Falls, WI, 53051. It will be a franchise location of Pickleball Kingdom, which opened its first location in Chandler, Arizona, in May 2022, according to its website. The Menomonee Falls location will welcome both pickleball enthusiasts as well as rank beginners who are looking to learn how to play for the first time. This facility will also contain a pro shop selling Prolite paddles and will also have showers and locker rooms. Memberships and daily fees will be available, although pricing has not yet been announced. For more information, visit pickleballkingdom.com or look up Pickleball Kingdom Menomonee Falls on Facebook.

As a side note, on the Pickleball Kingdom website, they mention that a franchise location will be coming to Madison, WI, but address, contact, and courts information is all “TBD.” I signed up to receive updates, and I will post more information on Pickleblog when I know more, so stay tuned!

What to Avoid Wearing When Playing Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:44:54 GMT

Did you know there are official rules in the 2024 USA Pickleball Official Rulebook about what constitutes appropriate pickleball attire?

The first rule you should be aware of relates to the prohibition on wearing clothing that closely matches the color of the pickleball itself. According to Section 1 of the Official Rulebook, “Players [should] avoid wearing clothing that closely matches the ball color.” This is to ensure a sense of fair play and to maintain the game’s underlying principles of fun and good-natured competition.

Most pickleballs, especially those used in tournaments, are bright yellow or neon green, but you will also see pickleballs now used in recreational play that are bright pink, orange, and blue, so when shopping for pickleball attire or deciding what to wear for a game, it would be best to avoid those colors. Instead, you should opt to wear contrasting colors that will make you stand out from the ball. If you’re sporting neon yellow or lime green, for example, you will have a high likelihood of blending in with the ball, causing confusion and potentially missed shots for your opponents.

You should also be aware of Rule 2.G.2., which provides that “Graphics, insignias, pictures, and writing on apparel must be in good taste.” This rule generally prohibits wearing clothing that could be offensive to others.

When it comes to shoes, they must comply with the above rules, and in addition, Rule 2.G.3. requires that they “not mark or damage the court’s playing surface.”

The clothing rules discussed above apply to both tournament and recreational play. During tournament play, Rule 2.G.1. states that “A player may be required to change apparel that is inappropriate, including that which approximates the color of the ball.” Rule 2.G.4. further provides that “The Tournament Director has the authority to enforce apparel changes. If the Tournament Director enforces an apparel change, it will be a non-chargeable time-out. If the player refuses to comply with the apparel rules, the Tournament Director may declare a forfeit of the match.”

And now that you know a little bit more about appropriate court attire, happy pickling!

Windsor Gets Seven New Indoor Pickleball Courts

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:37:40 GMT

Windsor now has seven new indoor pickleball courts as part of its Windsor Athletic Club, which just opened on October 1, 2024! The address of the facility is 4638 Golf Drive, Windsor, WI, 53598, and it is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The pickleball courts are on wooden floors that are also marked for basketball, volleyball, and badminton. The gym’s website is https://www.windsorathleticclub.com/. The Pickleball section of the website informs us that court rental costs are as follows:

Members - $60/hour; $95/1.5 hours
Non-members – call (608) 254-9489 for pricing
League information coming soon!

More information is available on their website.

With the Election Looming, Where Do Harris and Trump Stand on Pickleball?

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:46:29 GMT

Tomorrow is Tuesday, November 5, 2024, and in case you did not already know, that means it is election day in America! Our two leading presidential candidates are Kamala Harris, running on the Democratic ticket, and Donald Trump, running as the Republican nominee. This blog post is only intended in fun and to let you know where both candidates stand on one issue – pickleball!

The good news is that you cannot go wrong either way with whichever candidate you vote for if you are a single-issue voter and your one issue happens to be pickleball, because they both support it!

Trump recently installed four permanent, dedicated pickleball courts at his Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, for example. He did also want to build some pickleball courts at his Doonbeg Resort in Ireland, but construction has been delayed due to concerns over its potential impact on some protected snails.

In addition, Trump and his campaign have created a custom line of pickleball paddles and other gear for supporter-players across the country. In fact, you can buy a Trump Pickleball Set featuring two paddles with the name “TRUMP” written on them, along with a case and two balls here.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Party and the Harris-Walz campaign have hosted several pop-up pickleball events over the last few months in various cities to also attract pickleball enthusiast-voters. In addition, Amazon is selling a “Pickleballers for Kamala” hoodie and T-Shirt.

Depending who wins the election, these pickleball items could make great Christmas gifts for someone on your holiday list!

No matter which candidate you are supporting in tomorrow’s election, please be sure to vote!

Happy pickling!

Madison Gets Two New Indoor Pickleball Courts

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 21:09:31 GMT

There are two new indoor pickleball courts available to the public in Madison at a place called Ignite Pickleball on Madison’s West Side. The address is 7429 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, WI, 53719. During the week of October 28 – November 3, 2024, you can create an online account and reserve a court for free to try them out by going to https://app.courtreserve.com/Online/Portal/index/13402. Their general website address is madisonignite.com. From looking at the website, the courts appear to have wooden floors that are dual-marked for volleyball and pickleball. It also appears that they make use of temporary pickleball nets (rather than permanent ones). More information about Ignite Pickleball is available on their website.

The Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Pickleballs

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 15:58:07 GMT

You might have wondered what makes an indoor pickleball different from an outdoor one. This blog post is here to provide some answers!

First, it is important to know that all pickleballs, whether they are designated as being “indoor” or “outdoor” pickleballs, must follow certain guidelines set out by USA Pickleball.

To be approved by USA Pickleball, pickleballs must meet the following parameters:

Must be 2.87 - 2.97 inches in diameter
Must weigh 0.78 - 0.935 ounces
Must bounce 30 - 34 inches when dropped from a height of 78 inches
Must have a minimum of 26 and a maximum of 40 holes
Must have a uniform color and an untextured surface

While staying within the parameters mentioned above for legal balls, pickleball equipment companies have nonetheless implemented several noticeable and consistent differences in the design of balls that are used for indoor versus outdoor play. Some key differences between indoor and outdoor pickleballs include:

Number of Holes

Outdoor pickleballs usually have more holes, usually closer to the maximum of 40, while indoor balls tend to have fewer, usually between 26 and 30. Having more holes enables outdoor balls to adjust better to the wind, allowing for a more stable and accurate flight path. The additional holes provide outdoor pickleballs with a straighter trajectory, reducing the impact of wind gusts and crosswinds on your game.

Size of Holes

Indoor pickleballs have larger, wider holes compared to outdoor balls. This difference in hole size influences the feel of the ball, making indoor balls feel softer, slower, and easier to control than outdoor balls.

Weight

Indoor balls not only have larger holes but also tend to be made of softer plastic, which makes them lighter than their outdoor counterparts. The lightweight nature of indoor balls means that they tend to play slower, allowing players to execute more finessed, controlled shots.

Conversely, outdoor balls tend to be designed with harder, thicker plastic to withstand harsh, external weather conditions, such as wind and temperature fluctuations. The added weight of outdoor balls provides stability in windy conditions and also allows players to develop a faster, power game.

Hardness

Hardness is an important factor which influences the speed, bounce, and durability of pickleballs.

Outdoor pickleballs are typically thicker and harder than indoor balls, contributing to their faster play. Indoor balls, which are thinner, tend to bounce more because there is less weight keeping the ball down. While a bouncy ball is fine for indoor play, when outside, a bouncier ball will be more affected by weather.

Additionally, the harder materials of outdoor balls enables them to withstand the rigors of outdoor play, where rougher surfaces and unpredictable weather conditions are common. However, this added hardness can also make outdoor pickleballs more susceptible to cracking, as they possess fewer elastic properties compared to their indoor counterparts.

Indoor balls, with their softer construction, are less likely to crack but may not fare well if subjected to outdoor elements.

Conclusion

While you can use an indoor ball outdoors and vice versa, it's not advisable if you want to maximize your performance and enjoyment of the game. Instead, you should select a pickleball that is specifically designed for the type of play in which you plan to engage.

For indoor play, choose a pickleball with fewer, wider holes, lighter weight, and softer construction. These features will better enable you to execute precise shots and control the game with finesse.

Conversely, outdoor pickleballs, with their higher hole count, smaller holes, increased hardness, and heavier weight, are better able to handle the challenges of outdoor environments, such as wind and rough surfaces.

One thing to note, however, is that for the best experience, if you are going to be playing indoors on a tennis or pickleball hardcourt surface, then you should plan to play with an outdoor pickleball (since you are essentially playing on an outdoor surface indoors).

Happy pickling!

Why Coming Up to the Kitchen Line is a Strategy for Success!

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 21:17:01 GMT

In pickleball, understanding the significance of positioning on the court is paramount to mastering the game. One key principle for success involves moving up to the kitchen line as soon as possible, rather than hanging back at the baseline. Let's explore why embracing this approach can elevate your gameplay and help you and your partner dominate the court.

The Non-Volley Zone line, or kitchen line, is the white line that is located 7 feet from the net on either side. The kitchen line marks a strategic zone that allows players to exert pressure on their opponents and maintain control of the game. Most points in pickleball are won at the kitchen line. This is the case for a few key reasons:

Advancing to this area enables you to dictate the pace of play and take advantage of opportunities for aggressive shot placement. Making plays from the kitchen line leaves your opponents with less time to react to the next shot, since it places you closer to them. This in turn puts pressure on them, which makes it more likely that they will make errors.
It is easier to hit down on the pickleball when you play at the kitchen line, thereby causing your opponents to make forced errors.
Positioning yourself and your partner at the kitchen line limits the angles that your opponents have to hit shots. There are fewer openings and opportunities for your opponents to attack you and your partner. Being up at the kitchen line enables you and your partner to return more shots from your opponents.
By being up at the kitchen line, you and your partner will have less distance to cover on your side of the pickleball court. You won’t have to run all over the court to track down your opponents’ shots, enabling you to use your energy more efficiently and effectively.

Playing from the baseline puts you and your partner at a disadvantage for a few reasons:

You are generally forced to rely on defensive play, rather than being able to seize opportunities for offensive volleys and overheads.
Because you are significantly farther back from the net (22 feet) than your opponents at the kitchen line (7 feet), your opponents will have more time to react, set up their shots, and control the points.
Your shots will also be easier for your opponents to return and put away, since you will usually have to hit up on the ball.
Because you and your partner are 22 feet back from the net, it will be relatively easy for your opponents to win points by hitting soft little drop shots over the net.

Having one partner who likes to play up at the kitchen line and one who stays back at the baseline may be the worst configuration of all, as it leads to wide open gaps on the court between the players and/or expanses of open court that are not covered by either player.

Teammates should always move together; both should be back at the baseline, both should be up at the kitchen line, and if one is pulled off the court, the other should move to the middle until the other player can come back onto the court to cover their half.

Having said that, if you have a choice between you and your partner playing back at the baseline or playing up at the kitchen line, the winning strategy is to both be playing up at the kitchen line whenever possible.

Happy pickling!

Tips for Serving More Effectively

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 16:54:51 GMT

In pickleball, the serve is a fundamental aspect of gameplay and can set the tone for the entire match. Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned player, refining your serving technique is crucial for gaining a competitive edge. Here are some tips that can help you serve more effectively:

Serve deep (close to the baseline): A deep serve forces your opponent to hit their return from behind the baseline, making it more difficult for them to hit a deep, aggressive return. A shallow return makes it easier for you to control the third shot and gives you an easier opportunity to hit a drop shot, drive, or lob.
Serve to your opponent's backhand: Most players have a weaker backhand, so serving to your opponent’s backhand will often result in a softer return, again making it easier for you to control the third shot.
Mix it up: Sending a wide variety of different serves to your opponents can be an effective strategy, because it prevents them from being able to plan their return ahead of time. This means that you should send over some lob serves and some low, power serves; you should send many serves to your opponent’s backhand, but occasionally, also send some serves to their forehand. And, feel free to send over some flat serves, but some serves with spin as well!
Keep your arm relaxed, and serve from your shoulder: Using a smooth, fluid swing will enable you to serve deeper and will make your serve more consistent.
Hit the ball out in front of you when serving: This will give you more control and power.
Practice: The more you practice serving, the more consistent your serve will become and the more alternative types of serves you will develop and hone.

Happy pickling!

Playing Pickleball This Fall and Winter

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 14:20:22 GMT

Wondering where to play pickleball once the weather turns colder? Be sure to check out the Indoor Courts section of the CAPA website to find a list of local indoor pickleball facilities. One thing to note is that of all the courts that are listed there, only Pickle Pro Courts and Hitters offer dedicated pickleball courts. All the other facilities have multi-marked courts. And, not all of the courts at Hitters are dedicated pickleball courts. Some of their courts are multi-marked (with tennis lines).

Also, once you decide at which indoor facility you would like to play, you will want to visit their website as well as call them. It is possible that their website may not have the most updated information about current pricing for this fall/winter. Also, by calling, you can ask how it works to do open play or to reserve a court at the facility. At some locations, it is more cost effective to buy a membership, while at others, it is more advantageous to just purchase a punch card. You will also want to confirm the exact hours that pickleball is available this fall/winter, as hours may have changed since last year. Note also that some locations advertise their pickleball open play on playtimescheduler.com, while others just post the hours on their website. Some facilities are offering special promotions through the end of September before the cold weather sets in, so planning ahead for your fall and winter pickleball activities could quite literally pay off!

Happy pickling!

Staying Hydrated on the Pickleball Court: Recognizing Dehydration and Fueling Your Game

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:13:58 GMT

Pickleball's fast-paced nature and the intensity of play can cause players to work up a sweat, making proper hydration essential for maintaining peak performance. But how can you tell if you're becoming dehydrated, and what are the best ways to stay replenished on the court? Let's dive into the importance of hydration, learning how to recognize the signs of dehydration as well as the most effective methods to keep your body fueled during those action-packed matches.

Identifying Dehydration

Common symptoms of dehydration include thirst and dry mouth, but as it progresses, you may begin to experience a rapid heartbeat and feel dizzy, fatigued, and experience overall decreased athletic performance. These symptoms can indicate that your body needs more fluids. Be mindful of these signs during your pickleball sessions to ensure you're staying properly hydrated.

Avoiding Dehydration on the Court

1) Drink up: Aim to consume 6-8 ounces of fluids every 15-20 minutes during play. This can help replace fluids lost through sweat and maintain optimal hydration levels. You can kick-start your pickleball sessions by boosting your hydration before hitting the court. Aim to drink 16-20 ounces of water or an electrolyte beverage 1-2 hours prior to play.

2) What you drink matters: Avoid consuming sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages when playing, as these all tend to have a diuretic effect. On the other hand, beverages like water, electrolyte drinks and coconut water help quench your thirst and can replenish essential nutrients, such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which may be lost during physical activity or in hot weather. Keeping your drinks cold by using insulated water bottles or adding ice cubes can help lower body temperature and provide a refreshing boost during intense matches.

3) Listen to your body: If you're feeling thirsty, fatigued, or experiencing other signs of dehydration, take a break and rehydrate during or in-between games. Everyone's hydration needs vary based on factors like body size, sweat rate, and intensity of play. Even taking certain medications can impact how quickly or easily you may experience dehydration. Experiment with different beverages and drinking schedules to find what works best for you. If you are someone who experiences dehydration relatively easily, it might be a good idea to bring a chair to sit on when taking breaks. You can also buy a suction cup to put at the end of your paddle handle to use to help pick up pickleballs to avoid having to bend over if doing so exacerbates dizziness and light-headedness until your game ends and you can take a much-needed rest.

Conclusion

Staying properly hydrated is essential for maintaining peak performance on the pickleball court. By recognizing the signs of dehydration, fueling your body with the right fluids, and listening to your body's needs, you'll be ready to enjoy countless hours of fun and competitive play. Happy pickling!

New Pickleball Courts in Verona!

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 15:26:10 GMT

The two tennis courts at Verona's Veteran's Park have now been successfully transitioned into six new pickleball courts! The work began in late July 2024 and appears to now be complete (except that there were two orange cones like little dunce hats atop the end posts on the fences as you enter, so the City may not technically consider the courts to be officially open quite yet). All the nets are up, and there are fences in between all the courts, as well as around the perimeter of the courts. Parking is within a very short walking distance from the courts, and restrooms are in a park shelter that is about a 1-2 minute stroll from the courts. There are no overhead lights for these courts, unfortunately. Also, no windscreens have been installed. It is not clear if some will be installed at a future time. The courts are surrounded by prairie, so windscreens would be welcome. The courts themselves are beautiful! I have yet to hear back from the Verona Parks and Urban Forestry Department regarding when the official opening will be, but the courts appeared to be playable now. Veteran's Park is located at 113 Lincoln Street in Verona, WI, 53593.

Pickleball: A Fun-Filled Pathway to Better Health

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:50:25 GMT

Beyond the joy of friendly competition, pickleball offers an impressive array of health benefits. So, grab your paddle, and let's explore how pickleball can serve up a healthier, happier you.

Physical Activity and Weight Management

Pickleball offers an excellent cardiovascular workout, keeping your heart pumping and your blood flowing. Regular play can strengthen the heart muscle, improve blood circulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Pickleball is a relatively low-impact activity that is generally easy on the joints, making it an ideal choice for players of all ages and fitness levels.

A typical game of pickleball, lasting around 30 minutes, can help players burn between 250 to 350 calories, depending on the intensity of play and the individual's weight and fitness level. The continuous movements, quick bursts of energy, and agility required during a game all contribute to this impressive calorie-burning potential. Because of its fast-paced nature and sustained physical activity, pickleball can help torch calories and support weight management goals. Regular participation can boost metabolism and promote the development of lean muscle mass, assisting in maintaining a healthy body composition.

Muscle Strength and Balance Improvement

The dynamic movements required in pickleball engage numerous muscle groups, helping to build strength, endurance, and flexibility. From swift sprints to powerful swings, this sport challenges the body in a variety of ways, promoting overall muscular health.

Pickleball can also promote better balance, as the game involves a multitude of dynamic movements and quick changes in direction. Players must constantly adjust their body positioning to react to the ball and their opponent's shots, engaging various muscles and enhancing proprioception – the body's ability to perceive its position in space. Over time, this can lead to improved balance and overall stability.

Bone Health

Weight-bearing exercises like pickleball play a vital role in promoting bone density, reducing the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis. By engaging in this dynamic sport, you can give your skeletal system a helping hand while having a great time on the court.

Better Mental Health, Focus, and Less Stress

As a form of physical exercise, pickleball also encourages the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. These neurotransmitters interact with receptors in the brain, reducing the perception of pain and producing feelings of happiness and well-being. Regular physical activity also helps regulate stress hormones, such as cortisol, lowering overall stress levels.

In addition, because pickleball is inherently social, it fosters connections, friendships, and camaraderie among players. The supportive atmosphere and shared experiences can help build a sense of community and belonging, which contributes to improved mental health and stress reduction. Laughing, bonding, and forming friendships through the game can provide an emotional outlet, alleviating stress, loneliness, and improving overall well-being.

Pickleball's strategic elements offer a stimulating workout for the brain. Pickleball requires focus, quick decision-making, and tactical planning. Engaging in this mental aspect of the game can provide a break from daily worries, offering a form of escapism and mental relaxation. As players become immersed in the game, they may experience a state of flow – a deep concentration that promotes a sense of control and enjoyment, further reducing stress. Playing pickleball may help to keep the mind sharp and promote better cognitive function.

Sleep Enhancement

Participating in regular physical activity like pickleball can contribute to better sleep quality. Exercise helps to regulate circadian rhythms, promoting the release of melatonin and lowering the core body temperature – both essential factors in initiating and maintaining sleep. Furthermore, engaging in a fun and social activity like pickleball can reduce stress and anxiety, allowing players to relax and enjoy a more restful night's sleep.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pickleball is more than just a fun and engaging sport – it's a pathway to improved physical and mental well-being. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the court, pickleball offers a wide variety of physical and mental health benefits. Happy pickling!

Using Cooling Towels to Beat the Heat When Playing Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:16:20 GMT

If you play pickleball outdoors, you know that on hot, sunny days, it can be hard to stay cool and perform at your best. One innovative solution gaining popularity is the use of cooling towels, a simple yet effective method to keep your body temperature in check during those intense pickleball sessions on sizzling summer days.

How to Use Cooling Towels

To activate a cooling towel, simply wet it with cool water, wring it out, and give it a few shakes. The result is a refreshingly cool towel that can provide instant relief on a hot day.

How do Cooling Towels Work?

Cooling towels function through the principle of evaporative cooling, whereby water evaporates from the towel's surface, drawing heat away from your body and creating a cooling sensation. The difference in temperature between your body and the towel helps transfer heat from your body to the towel, which is then lost through evaporation.

Choosing the Right Cooling Towel

When selecting a cooling towel, consider factors such as material, size, and durability. Opt for high-quality, absorbent fabrics like microfiber, which efficiently wick away moisture and retain their cooling properties for extended periods. Some towels even offer UPF protection, providing an additional barrier against the sun's harmful rays.

Maximizing the Benefits of Cooling Towels on the Court

To get the most out of your cooling towel during a pickleball match, follow these simple tips:

1) Rotate the towel: Re-expose sections pressed against your skin to the air every few minutes for maximum cooling.

2) Reactivate as needed: If the towel loses its coolness, simply re-wet and wring it out for a refreshing recharge.

3) Protect your neck and head: Drape the towel over these areas to regulate body temperature effectively and shield yourself from the sun. You can try putting a cap on over the towel to hold it in place.

Where to Buy Cooling Towels

You can buy cooling towels at most sporting goods stores as well as big-box retailers, like Walmart and Target.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cooling towels offer a convenient and efficient way to beat the heat during intense pickleball matches. By harnessing the power of evaporative cooling and choosing the right towel for your needs, you can maintain your performance on the court and enjoy a comfortable playing experience, even on the hottest days.

Happy pickling!

The Art of Pickleball Spectatorship: A Guide to Fan Etiquette

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 15:33:44 GMT

Pickleball is known not only for its engaging gameplay but also for the tight-knit community that has formed around it. As more fans flock to pickleball tournaments, it's essential to understand and adhere to proper fan etiquette. In this blog post, we'll explore the ins and outs of being a courteous and supportive pickleball spectator.

Respect the game: While it's natural to feel passionate about your favorite players and teams, it's crucial to maintain respect for all players on the court. Refrain from booing, taunting, or engaging in any behavior that could be perceived as unsportsmanlike.

Know when to cheer: Pickleball matches can be intense, and it's essential to understand when it's appropriate to cheer. Cheering between points is generally encouraged, but try to avoid cheering during a point, as it may distract the players.

Observe the players' personal space: Players need their space to perform at their best. When seated near the court, avoid encroaching on their personal space, and refrain from touching or interacting with the players during the match. In fact, as per the 2024 Official Pickleball Rulebook, spectators should not provide assistance with line calls, and even a player’s coach is only allowed to provide coaching during official time-outs and in-between games (see Rules 6.C.4. and 13.G.1.j.).

Practice good sportsmanship: Pickleball is renowned for its friendly atmosphere, so make sure to be a positive force at tournaments. Congratulate players on a game well played and show support to both the winners and the losers.

Be aware of your surroundings: As a fan, you have a responsibility to be aware of your surroundings and ensure that your actions do not hinder other spectators' enjoyment of the match. Avoid blocking the view of other fans, and be mindful of your personal belongings, so they don't obstruct walkways or seating areas.

Follow venue-specific guidelines: Each pickleball venue may have its own set of rules and guidelines, including where you can sit and what you can bring into the facility. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines before attending a tournament to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.

In conclusion, being a pickleball fan is an exciting and rewarding experience, and adhering to proper fan etiquette will help maintain the sport's welcoming atmosphere. By respecting the game, the players, and your fellow fans, you can contribute to the vibrant and growing world of pickleball.

Media Coverage: 'In the 608' Features 2024 Baird CAPA Cup

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 13:52:37 GMT

The 2024 Baird CAPA Cup was featured this morning on the News 3 / Channel 3000’s 'In the 608' news segment which ran during the 6 am – 7 am morning newscast. There were two separate segments that ran for about 4 minutes each. Here is the link that features both video segments. Be sure to click on each video:

https://www.channel3000.com/features/in-the-608-capital-area-pickleball-association-tournament-for-a-good-cause-this-weekend/article_d7e3ec1c-59a0-11ef-9ac1-a7dbf33b59b5.html

There is also an article about the tournament below the videos at the link above.

When watching the videos, you may see some pickleballers you recognize, including current CAPA President Kevin McPherson, former CAPA President Rico Goedjen, USA Pickleball Ambassador Stephanie Gander, and CAPA members Ivie Tharpe, Denzel Bibbs, Michelle Hebert, Richard S. Russell and Abigail Darwin. The News 3 reporter was Josh Spreiter.

Pickleball by the Numbers: Unraveling the Explosive Growth of America's Favorite Paddle Sport

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:28:40 GMT

Pickleball has experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity over the past few years. The 2024 Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA) Topline Participation Report announced that pickleball continued to be America’s fastest-growing sport for the third year in a row (out of 124 tracked). In the report, the SFIA also announced that pickleball had grown 51.8% from 2022 to 2023, and an incredible 223.5% since 2020. This exciting and accessible sport has attracted thousands of new players of all ages and skill levels in a fairly short period of time, making it a true phenomenon. Let's delve into some more eye-catching statistics that showcase the impressive growth of pickleball.

Player Participation

While exact numbers vary depending on the source, there is no denying how quickly pickleball has grown in popularity. According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP), as of March 2023, 48.3 million adult Americans – almost 1/5th of the total adult population in the U.S. – had tried playing pickleball at least once in the past 12 months! That number represented a 35% increase over the APP’s prior research conducted in August 2022, when it had found that adult participation had reached 36.5 million!

Regional Participation and Growth

According to the SFIA 2023 State of Pickleball: Participation & Infrastructure Report, pickleball participation has been growing in every region in the U.S., with the South Atlantic region (including DE, FL, GA, MD, NC, SC, VA) boasting the largest population of pickleball players with 1.9 million players. The Pacific and East North Central regions had the second and third highest populations, with 1.5 million and 1.4 million players, respectively. Interestingly, the East South Central U.S., which covers states like Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee, had the lowest population of pickleball players, with 0.9% of the total pickleball population.

According to the SFIA Pickleball Single Sport Report (2022), when it comes to where the sport is growing fastest, however, that would be in the West North Central Region of the US, in states like Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. They have been showing the fastest growth in new pickleball players, with about 30% year-over-year growth.

Interestingly, The Single Sport Report points out that the Middle Atlantic Region, including states like New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, have been showing the slowest growth in new pickleball players in recent years, with only 5.8% year-over-year growth.

Demographics

Contrary to popular belief, pickleball is not just a sport for retirees. In fact, the March 2023 research from the APP finds that the average age of avid pickleball players (those playing at least once a month) is now about 35, with approximately 72% of such players being between the ages of 18 and 44. Pickleball is truly a multi-generational sport, fostering connections and friendly competition among people of all ages.

The report also found that most pickleball players are men. When it comes to avid pickleball players, 62% identify as male, and when it comes to casual players, 57% identify as male.

Pickleball Facilities

As the number of players continues to grow, so does the demand for courts and facilities. In its 2024 Annual Growth Report, the USA Pickleball Association reported that there were 50,003 known pickleball courts in 2023. On a statewide basis, California had the most pickleball courts (3,589), followed by Florida (2,854) and Texas (2,081).

Competitive Play

Competitive pickleball has also experienced substantial growth, with 195 official tournaments sanctioned by USA Pickleball in 2023, according to the 2024 Annual Growth Report. There is a growing interest in tournament play, showcasing pickleball's potential as a competitive sport on both the national and international stage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pickleball's meteoric rise in popularity is nothing short of astonishing. With millions of players across the United States, this once-niche sport played primarily in high school physical education classes has firmly established itself as a mainstream favorite. As more people discover the joy and camaraderie that pickleball offers, we can expect this paddle-wielding sensation to continue its rapid growth and evolution in the years to come.

Largest Pickleball Court Complex in Wisconsin Opens Near Eau Claire

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:42:59 GMT

This past weekend, the largest pickleball court complex opened in Wisconsin, and you may be surprised to find out where it is located – in small town Lake Hallie, population 7,287 (as of 2022). Lake Hallie is a 15-minute drive northeast of Eau Claire and is located about 3 hours from Madison. The courts are located in Gower Park. Construction took about 7 months, and the courts cost around $300,000 to build. Interestingly, only about $110,000 of that came from the Village of Lake Hallie; the rest of the funding came from private donors. The Chippewa Valley Pickleball Club will manage and maintain the complex. The courts are free for any members of the public to use. More information is available here.

Mark your calendars now for a road trip, because the complex will be hosting a professional PPA tournament in July 2025!

Picking the Perfect Pickleball Partner for a Tournament

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 03:56:29 GMT

Pickleball is a sport that offers a fun, unique, and engaging way to stay active and social, while also allowing those with a competitive side to embrace that aspect of their personality as well. As the game has evolved, so too has the importance of finding the right partner to complement your skills, style, and demeanor on the court. Here are some key factors to consider when searching for your perfect pickleball partner.

1. Skill Level: An ideal partner should possess a skill level similar to yours, ensuring a balanced and competitive team. This is particularly important for couples to keep in mind, because tournaments prohibit “sandbagging.” Sandbagging occurs when someone plays in a skill category that is significantly below their level (e.g., a husband is rated as a 3.75 and signs up to play with his wife who is rated as a 3.25 in the 3.0-3.5 mixed doubles bracket). Sometimes, this happens because couples are unevenly skilled but want to play together. It’s important to remember, though, that in a tournament setting, especially one which will be DUPR-rated, it’s crucial that partners try to pair up with others who are relatively close to their own skill level. This may mean that you have to break out of your comfort zone and pair up with someone you don’t know as well to preserve the fairness and integrity of the bracket for the other players.

2. Style of Play: It's also essential to consider your and your potential partner’s playstyles – are you both aggressive at the kitchen line (e.g., hitting hard volleys, accelerating dinks), or do you prefer a more defensive approach (e.g., hitting soft volleys and maintaining long dink rallies)? Do you prefer to hit third shot drops or third shot drives? Do you prefer to hit setup shots or put-aways? Finding someone whose playstyle matches or complements your own will create a formidable team.

3. Communication: A successful pickleball partnership relies heavily on effective communication. Look for a partner who can clearly express their thoughts and intentions on the court, enabling seamless coordination and strategic planning.

4. Temperament: Pickleball is not only about skill but also about sportsmanship and camaraderie. Choose a partner who shares your values, handles pressure well, and maintains a positive attitude, win or lose.

5. Commitment: Finding a partner who shares your dedication to the sport is crucial for long-term success. Ensure that you both have similar goals and expectations, whether you're aiming for recreational fun or competitive play.

6. Personal Compatibility: A strong pickleball partnership extends beyond the court. Look for someone with whom you share common interests, values, and a sense of humor, as this will foster a sense of unity and trust between you.

7. Handedness: Are you both right- or left-handed, or is one of you right-handed and the other left-handed? If one of you is right-handed and the other is left-handed, do you both want to stack or play in original positioning? If stacking, do you want to do full stacking or half stacking? Discussing this ahead of time could save lots of headaches down the road.

8. Quickness: Are you equally fast runners? Do you each want to run down your own lobs, or would you prefer to run down each other’s lobs? What about running down short shots? Is one of you better equipped to do that? Be sure to investigate and discuss this before deciding on a partner, because speed and nimbleness may seem trivial now, but it will matter when you are playing in a tournament.

9. Bracket Preference: What bracket would you sign up for if you were to partner up for a tournament? If your skill level is on the cusp of the next level (e.g., 3.4), one of you might want a challenge and want to sign up for a higher bracket (e.g., 3.5-4.0), while one of you may prefer to be more conservative and stay in your current skill bracket (in this example 3.0-3.5). And then there is the question of age. If one of you is younger than the other, most tournaments will require that teams play in the age bracket of the youngest person on the team. If one partner is 49 and the other is 61, for example, this may mean that the team would have to play in the 18+ bracket, whereas if the 61-year-old had partnered with someone of a more similar age, he/she could play in the 60+ age bracket.

So, now the question arises of once you find that special person who you think you might like to partner up with for a tournament, which tournament should you register for? If you are looking for a fun tournament to register for this summer, I would recommend the 2024 Baird CAPA Cup. It will be held at the McFarland Park courts Aug. 16-18. Here’s how to register:

(1) Go to PickleballBrackets.com and look for the search icon at the left:

(2) Click on it and, under “Keyword”, enter “CAPA”, then click on “Search”.

(3) Click on the Wisconsin one.

(4) Click on “Events” to see what brackets are available.

(5) When you find one you want to play in, click on “Back to Tourney” (top left of page) to register for it.

(6) You can register for up to 3 different events.

Happy partner-hunting, and I’ll see you at the Baird CAPA Cup!

Why You Should Join a CAPA Pickleball League!

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 21:49:20 GMT

Pickleball offers a unique blend of fun, social interaction, and competitive play for participants of all ages and skill levels. As both the sport and the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) have grown, so too have the number of pickleball leagues available right here in the Greater Madison Area, providing players with an excellent opportunity to challenge themselves and enjoy the game in a more structured setting.

Let's explore some of the key benefits of joining a CAPA pickleball league:

1. Improved Skills and Strategy: Playing regularly in a league allows you to hone your skills and develop new techniques. You'll also learn from other players, which can lead to a deeper understanding of strategy and gameplay.

2. Enhanced Fitness and Health: Pickleball offers a fantastic aerobic workout, and participating in a league can improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and balance.

3. Camaraderie and Social Engagement: Joining a pickleball league means connecting with individuals of a similar skill level who also share a passion for pickleball. The friendships forged on the court can extend beyond the game, leading to a richer social life.

4. Motivation and Competitive Spirit: League play often provides a healthy dose of competition, motivating you to improve your skills and push yourself to be your best.

5. Consistency and Scheduling: Pickleball leagues meet at set times on a weekly basis, ensuring you'll be playing regularly and consistently, which is vital for skill development and overall enjoyment of the sport.

6. DUPR: CAPA league organizers generally enter scores from weekly play into the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) system. So, if you are looking for the opportunity to figure out your skill rating or to get a more accurate DUPR rating, league play could be beneficial in both regards!

7. Easy to Join: CAPA leagues are easy to join! All CAPA members with a skill level of 2.0 or higher are eligible to join a CAPA league. When you create your member profile on the CAPA website, be sure to enter your skill level (self-assessed), which you can figure out by going to https://usapickleball.org/tournaments/tournament-player-ratings/player-skill-rating-definitions/ . Then, when a new CAPA league forms, you will be notified via email and will be given an opportunity to sign up. New CAPA leagues start monthly almost all-year-round. You can register for a league as an individual; you don’t need to have a partner. CAPA leagues are also very reasonably priced, so joining one won’t break the bank!

More information about CAPA pickleball leagues can be found here.

Joining a pickleball league can provide numerous benefits, from improved skills and fitness to enhanced social engagement and a sense of community. With a range of CAPA leagues available, there's an option to suit almost every player, from skill level 2.0 – 4.0+! With new opportunities to join leagues happening almost monthly and practically year-round, why not dive into the world of league play and experience the excitement for yourself?

What are the Rules Regarding the Height of Release of the Ball on the Serve?

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:22:55 GMT

Over the past few months, I have been either asked or told that on a serve, the ball must be released from the hand no higher than the server’s waist. Each time I have heard this, I have rushed to the USA Pickleball 2024 Official Rulebook and Google to see if there has been a rule change that I didn’t know about, and I can never find the rule to which the person is referring.

There is a rule in Section 4.A.8.a. (relating to the drop serve), which states that, “The server must release the ball from one hand only or drop it off the paddle face from any natural (un-aided) height." In plain English, this just means that you can drop the ball from as high as you can reach. Since most of us can reach higher than our waist, this could not be the rule to which people have been referring.

And, of course, the rule in Section 4.A.7.c. (relating to the volley serve) requires that, “Contact with the ball must not be made above the waist,” but it says nothing about the height at which the ball can be dropped before the server makes contact with it below the waist. So, this also could not be the rule to which people have been referring.

In fact, there is no rule about dropping the ball at or below the waist on either the drop serve or the volley serve in the Official Rulebook. See the serve rules at Section 4.A. of the Official Rulebook.

The last time this subject came up, I decided I would do some additional research to find out the origin of this misunderstanding that seems to be going around the pickleball courts.

It turns out that there was a pickleball tournament in January 2024, called the PPA Masters Tournament, and for that tournament, a rule change regarding the volley serve was implemented for the pros, which required that the ball had to be dropped from waist-level or below. Depending on how things went at the tournament, it was possible that this rule change was going to become permanent. Here is a video that explains the proposed rule change regarding the height of the drop for the volley serve, as it was implemented at the PPA Masters Tournament.

I now see on the USA Pickleball website that this is a proposed rule change for the volley serve (not the drop serve) for 2025. Here is a link to the proposed rule change language from USA Pickleball that would require that users of the volley serve be required to drop the ball from no higher than waist-high level and the rationale behind the rule change.

So, in short, there is currently no rule about having to drop the ball from waist-high level or below on any kind of serve. It may or may not become a rule in the future for the volley serve. Stay tuned!

How Long Do Pickleball Paddles Last & How Do You Know When It’s Time for a New One?

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:18:37 GMT

If you are an avid pickleball player, you may have wondered how long your trusty paddle will last before it may be time to replace it. Unfortunately, the answer isn't as straightforward as you might hope. Although the lifespan of the average pickleball paddle is 1-3 years, the specific lifespan of a particular paddle will depend on many variables, including the materials it is made of, the frequency and intensity of play, and how well it is maintained and cared for. Let's dive into these factors and then explore some telltale signs that it may be time for a new paddle.

Factors Affecting Paddle Lifespan

Paddle Materials. Paddles made from higher-quality materials like graphite and composite tend to last longer than wooden paddles. These materials are more durable and less subject to warping from heat and humidity, which translates to a longer lifespan.

Having said that, the materials in the higher-end paddles, including the core material – the most common one being “polymer” – and the overlaying thin layers of carbon fiber, graphite, or other composite material, will also start to lose performance after several thousand hits against a pickleball.

Frequency and Intensity of Play. Players who play every day and hit the ball super hard are likely to wear out their paddles much faster than someone who hardly plays and only hits the ball softly. So, if you're an occasional player, your paddle may last several years. However, competitive players who engage in high-intensity games may find their paddles wear out significantly faster, sometimes within a year.
Maintenance and Care. Properly caring for your paddle can extend its lifespan. Some tips include:

o   Do not store your paddle in extreme temperatures (hot or cold). Be sure to store your paddle in your home rather than your car/trunk, since your car can experience extreme hot and cold temperatures.
o   Prevent your paddle from getting wet. Try to avoid playing in the rain (both to keep your paddle from getting wet and to avoid slipping and falling).
o   Keep your paddle in a case or cover to avoid surface damage.

Signs It May be Time to Replace Your Pickleball Paddle

Failing edge guard. If the edge guard of your paddle is starting to peel off or come undone, it could be a precursor to more serious issues like delamination. Delamination occurs when the layers of material of the paddle face separate from each other or from the core. If your pickleball paddle is delaminated, you may notice soft spots, bubbling, peeling, or unevenness on the paddle’s surface.
Chips, cracks, or dents. Visible chips, cracks, or dents in the paddle surface can significantly impact its performance and may indicate it's time for a new one.
Loss of texture. As you play, the texture on the face of your paddle will naturally wear down, resulting in a significantly smoother surface. This will make it much harder to grip and add spin to the ball, signaling that it is probably time for a new paddle.
Dead spots. If you notice areas on the paddle face where the ball doesn't bounce off as well, this could be a sign of irreversible wear and tear.
Reduced power and control. If you're struggling to generate power or maintain control during shots, it may be a sign that your paddle's performance has deteriorated.

Warranties

Many high-quality paddle brands have warranties that guarantee that the company will replace the paddle if it wears out or shows defects within a certain time after purchase. Most warranties last about 6 months to one year, depending on the paddle. Be sure to register your paddle as soon as you purchase it to take advantage of the warranty, if necessary.

Conclusion

The lifespan of a pickleball paddle depends on various factors, including materials, playing frequency and intensity, and maintenance and care. Keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, and don't hesitate to replace your paddle when the time comes. Ultimately, playing with a paddle in good condition is key to enjoying the game and performing at your best. Happy pickling!

Dynamic Stretching: A Game Changer for Warm-Ups and Flexibility

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 14:26:23 GMT

Gone are the days when static stretching was considered the best way to warm up before physical activities. Today, dynamic stretching has taken center stage as an effective method for not only increasing flexibility but also enhancing athletic performance. So, what exactly is dynamic stretching, and how does it work? Let’s dive in!

What is Dynamic Stretching?

Unlike static stretching, which involves holding a stretch for a specific period of time, dynamic stretching focuses on movement-based stretches. It uses a combination of controlled movements, bodyweight exercises, and momentum to enhance flexibility and improve your range of motion.

Advantages of Dynamic Stretching

The benefits of dynamic stretching include:

Improved Range of Motion: By engaging your muscles through movement, dynamic stretching can effectively increase your range of motion and overall flexibility.
Better Blood Flow: The constant motion associated with dynamic stretching promotes increased blood flow to the muscles, which helps prepare them for the activity ahead (in our case, pickleball!)
Enhanced Performance: With improved flexibility and blood flow, dynamic stretching has been shown to enhance agility, speed, and athletic performance.
Reduced Risk of Injury: Properly warmed-up muscles are less prone to strains and tears, which means dynamic stretching can reduce the risk of injury during workouts or sports, including pickleball.

How to Perform Dynamic Stretches

To get the most out of dynamic stretching, it is essential to focus on functional movements that mimic those in your chosen activity, in our case pickleball. Some popular dynamic stretches include leg swings, arm circles, and high knees. Here are some basic steps to follow:

1. Start slowly: Begin with a gentle movement and gradually increase your range and speed as you progress.

2. Be consistent: Aim to perform dynamic stretching routines regularly, especially before workouts, to reap the benefits.

3. Focus on form: Maintain proper form and technique while performing the movements to avoid injury.

4. Pay attention to your body: Listen to your body and stop if you feel any discomfort or pain during the stretches.

A great YouTube video that discusses dynamic stretching exercises for pickleball can be found here.

Is Dynamic Stretching Suitable for All Age Groups?

Dynamic stretching can benefit people of all ages, but it is important to adjust the intensity and complexity of the stretches according to one's age and fitness level. Older adults may benefit from a slower pace and less complex movements to prevent overstressing their joints and muscles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dynamic stretching is a valuable addition to any workout routine, including pickleball, and it provides numerous advantages over traditional static stretching. By incorporating dynamic stretches into your warm-ups, you can unlock greater flexibility and performance, as well as reduce the risk of injury. Remember to tailor the stretches to your age and fitness level and consult with a professional if you are unsure about where to start.

Happy stretching, and happy pickling!

Newsflash: Madison and Surrounding Area Have a lot of Outdoor Pickleball Courts!

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 19:13:18 GMT

According to a May 23, 2024, blog post on the website, The Kitchen, when considering American cities with a population over 100,000, Madison has the second most outdoor, dedicated pickleball courts in the country!

The top 10 U.S. cities with the most pickleball courts per 100,000 people are as follows:

1. Louisville, KY (3.8)

2. Madison, WI (2.3)

3. Honolulu, HI (1.9)

4. Saint Petersburg, FL (1.8)

5. Port Saint Lucie, FL (1.6)

6. Bakersfield, CA (1.6)

7. Boise, ID (1.5)

8. Albuquerque, NM (1.4)

9. Virginia Beach, VA (1.2)

10. Saint Louis, MO (1.2)

Of course, for those of us who live in Madison and the greater Dane County Area, we know that several of the smaller communities surrounding Madison actually have many more dedicated pickleball courts than Madison proper. In addition, there are many tennis courts in both Madison and the surrounding communities that are also lined for pickleball, providing everyone with additional court space over-and-above that provided solely by the dedicated pickleball courts.

Here is a summary of the prevalence of outdoor pickleball courts in Dane County. Numbers provided below include: (1) courts, (2) community population, and (3) courts per 10,000 people:

Black Earth, 1 total, 1,452, 6.89
Cottage Grove, 12 dedicated, 8,857, 13.55
Cross Plains, 4 dedicated, 4,010, 9.98
Cross Plains, 5 total, 4,010, 12.47
Deerfield, 1 dedicated, 2,454, 4.07
DeForest, 4 dedicated, 10,893, 3.67
DeForest, 5 total, 10,893, 4.59
Fitchburg, 8 dedicated, 30,834, 2.59
Fitchburg, 10 total, 30,834, 3.24
Madison: 6 dedicated, 272,903, 0.22
Madison: 58 total, 272,903, 2.13
McFarland, 8 dedicated, 9,378, 8.53
Middleton, 8 dedicated, 22,328, 3.58
Monona, 4 total, 8,585, 4.66
Mount Horeb, 6 dedicated, 7,682, 7.81
Oregon, 6 dedicated, 11,610, 5.17
Sauk Prairie (combination of Sauk City and Prairie du Sac), 8 dedicated, 7,881, 10.15
Stoughton: 6 dedicated, 12,846, 4.67
Stoughton: 8 total, 12,846, 6.23
Sun Prairie, 12 dedicated, 36,653, 3.27
Sun Prairie, 14 total, 36,653, 3.82
Verona, 4 dedicated, 14,521, 2.75
Verona, 6 total, 14,521, 4.13
Waunakee, 7 dedicated, 14,998, 4.67
Waunakee, 14 total, 14,998, 9.33
Westport, 1 total, 4,183, 2.39
Windsor, 3 dedicated, 8,754, 3.43

Much of the information which was used in putting together this blog post was pulled from the CAPA website’s “Outdoor Courts” section. Be sure to check it out for more detailed information about the specific names and locations of courts in your community.

USA Pickleball De-Certifies Some New and Popular Joola Paddles

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 16:32:37 GMT

USA Pickleball is the National Governing Body for the sport of pickleball in the U.S. If you play in tournaments, then you appreciate the importance of having a paddle that is “USA Pickleball-approved.” For a paddle to be approved by USA Pickleball, it has to meet certain specifications related to material, surface roughness, size, and weight. USA Pickleball approval of equipment is intended to ensure and preserve integrity and fairness for all players. The USA Pickleball seal of approval is so important that you will not be allowed to play in most tournaments if you do not have a paddle that is included on the USA Pickleball-approved equipment list.

This year, there has been a significant development that may impact some of you. Specifically, USA Pickleball has de-certified some new and very popular Joola paddles. These paddles include:

Anna Bright Scorpeus 3 14mm
Ben Johns Hyperion 3 16mm
Ben Johns Hyperion 3 14mm
Ben Johns Perseus 3 14mm
Ben Johns Perseus 3 16mm
Collin Johns Scorpeus 3 16mm
Hyperion Alpha 2024 16mm
Hyperion Alpha 2024 14mm
Magnus Alpha 2024 16mm
Magnus Alpha 2024 14mm
Perseus Alpha 2024 16mm
Perseus Alpha 2024 14mm
Scorpeus Alpha 2024 16mm
Scorpeus Alpha 2024 14mm
Simone Jardim Hyperion 3 16mm
Tyson McGuffin Magnus 3 14mm
Tyson McGuffin Magnus 3 16mm

To read the official USA Pickleball statement about why it de-certified these paddles, as well as some FAQs on this topic, go to https://usapickleball.org/news/usa-pickleball-statement-on-decertified-joola-paddles-and-equipment-testing-standards/.

According to Joola’s website, if you purchased one of these paddles, you can return it by July 15, 2024, for a full refund. Instructions for doing so can be found at https://joolausa.com/frequently-asked-questions/ under “Gen3 Paddle Returns.”

If you are curious about whether your paddle is USA Pickleball-approved (whether it is a Joola or a non-Joola paddle), you can find out by going to www.equipment.usapickleball.org.

Could Pickleball Become an Olympic Sport?

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:48:11 GMT

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States, and it is also starting to pick up steam in other countries as well. So, you might be curious as to whether you will see pickleball being played at this summer’s Olympics in Paris? The answer is unfortunately not, but take heart, because it may not be long until pickleball will be played in the Olympics!

For a sport to be in the Olympics, it must be governed by an International Federation that must implement the World Anti-Doping Code. For a sport to be added to the male sports slate, it also has to be played widely in at least 75 countries and on at least 4 continents; for a sport to be added to the female sport slate, it must be widely played in at least 40 countries and on at least 3 continents.

Because it did not meet these conditions timely, pickleball will not be part of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and was not included on the additional sports proposal for the 2028 Olympic Games, which will be held in Los Angeles.

So, the next possible opportunity for pickleball to be included in the Olympics will not occur until 2032, when the Olympics will be held in Brisbane, Australia. But it’s not actually that far-fetched to believe that pickleball could be part of that year’s Olympic Games. Pickleball already has several international federations, including the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). The WPF has 60 member countries on 6 continents. The GPF has about 40 member countries on 5 continents, and the GPF’s mission is to earn Olympic recognition and the eventual inclusion of the sport in the Paralympic and Olympic Games.

I don’t know about you, but I am already looking forward to 2032!

Choosing the Right Pickleball Paddle for You

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 29 May 2024 21:16:39 GMT

Choosing a paddle can be a daunting task and may seem downright overwhelming with all the different options available on the market right now. Here are a few factors to consider to better ensure you make the right paddle purchase for you:

• Paddle playability and size of the “sweet spot”

o “Playability” refers to how easy a paddle is to immediately pick up and play with for players of most levels and styles. The “sweet spot” refers to the area on the paddle where you can hit the ball most effectively and solidly. Paddles differ with respect to how playable they are and how large their sweet spot is.

• Your playing style

o One key dimension here to take note of is whether you are more of a “power” player (love to hit the ball hard) or whether you are more of a “control” player (love to win a point with a well-placed shot). Control players generally prefer a lighter paddle with a carbon fiber or graphite face, a thick core, and a larger sweet spot. Power players tend to prefer a heavier paddle with a longer handle and a composite surface to add more power and leverage to their shots.

o Another key dimension to take note of is whether you like to add spin to your shots. If so, you will want a paddle with a heavily textured surface.

• Shape/size of paddle

o Generally speaking, paddles come in two varieties – larger faces and shorter handles, or slightly smaller faces and longer handles. If you are someone who is shorter and/or who likes to hit two-handed backhands, you might prefer a longer handle and a smaller paddle face, and vice versa. However, keep in mind that long, narrow paddles tend to have smaller sweet spots and tend to be head-heavy.

• Grip size

o Many paddle brands offer different grip sizes for people with different hand sizes. If you have a small hand, be sure to look for a paddle that offers a smaller grip size.

• Paddle weight and balance

o Paddles can weigh anywhere from about 6 to 9.5 ounces, and the weight may be evenly distributed throughout the paddle, or it may be balanced toward the head of the paddle. The heavier the paddle and the more it is balanced toward the head, the more powerful the paddle is likely to be, but the less control you are likely to have over your shots. Heavier paddles can also tire out your arm more easily, but they can also require less strength to hit a hard shot toward your opponent.

• Paddle materials

o Paddles can be made of many different materials, including wood, aluminum, carbon, graphite, composites (such as fiberglass), and plastic. Generally speaking, paddles with a carbon fiber or graphite surface will offer better control than those with a composite surface. Paddles with a composite surface will generally offer more power but less control over placement. Carbon fiber and graphite paddle faces tend to enable the ability to spin the ball better than a composite paddle face as well.

• Price range

o You can find paddles in a wide array of price ranges from about $10 to over $300! While it is not necessary to buy the most expensive paddle out there, I would also caution against buying the cheapest paddle you can find. Higher quality paddles tend to be made with better materials and will allow you to do more advanced techniques as you progress in your learning of the game, such as adding different kinds of spin.

• USA-Pickleball-Approved status

o USA Pickleball is the official national governing body for the sport of pickleball. If you intend to play in any tournaments, then before buying a paddle, you should make sure that the words “USA Pickleball Approved” appear on the paddle. This indicates that the paddle has been inspected by USA Pickleball, has met certain standards, and has been deemed acceptable for official tournament play. To be USA Pickleball Approved, paddles must be of a certain size and weight, must not have a surface with too much texture, and must have a core made of approved materials.

You can buy a new paddle online, such as through pickleballcentral.com or Amazon.com, or in-person at your favorite local sporting goods retailer.

Happy pickling!

Preventing and Recognizing the Warning Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses When Playing Pickleball This Summer

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 20 May 2024 14:20:20 GMT

As the temperature rises, so does the risk of experiencing heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Recognizing the warning signs and understanding the differences between these conditions can help keep you safe and healthy when playing pickleball this summer.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats, often due to strenuous activity – like pickleball -- in hot, humid weather. Symptoms include:

Heavy sweating
Cold, pale, and clammy skin
Muscle cramps
Fast, weak pulse
Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness
Headache
Nausea or vomiting

If left untreated, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke, so it is essential to seek shade, rest, loosen your clothing, and hydrate immediately, when you first experience symptoms. Get medical help right away if you are throwing up, your symptoms worsen, or your symptoms last longer than one hour.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is more severe and occurs when the body's temperature rises to 104°F or higher. It can cause damage to the brain, kidneys, and muscles. Warning signs include:

High body temperature
Slurred speech
Hot, dry, damp, or red skin
Rapid breathing and heartbeat
Confusion, agitation, altered mental state, or unconsciousness
Seizures

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention, so call 911 if you suspect that you or someone else is suffering from this life-threatening condition! In addition, move the person to a cool place, and help lower their body temperature by putting cool cloths or ice on them. Do NOT give the person anything to drink unless they are fully awake and alert and sitting completely upright. Otherwise, doing so could cause them to choke and aspirate.

Prevention is Key

To avoid heat-related illnesses, on hot, humid days, be sure to stay hydrated, wear light-colored and breathable clothing, and take breaks in cool, shaded areas. Additionally, never leave children or pets in hot cars while you are playing.

Conclusion

Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and taking steps to prevent them can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying a safe and healthy summer.

Happy pickling!

Mastering the Mental Game & Staying Positive When Playing in Pickleball Tournaments

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 15 May 2024 16:55:32 GMT

As we head into late spring and summer, we are entering prime pickleball tournament season here in Wisconsin. Win or lose, maintaining a positive mindset while playing in a pickleball tournament is crucial for attaining peak performance. It can be easy to get wrapped up in the moment, especially if you just hit an unforced error, or if you realize you are about to play someone who you think is significantly better than you, but keeping a level head can make all the difference. Here's how to stay upbeat and focused throughout the game and not let negativity and anxiety control you.

Why Staying Positive Matters

Keeping a positive mindset during a tournament can help you overcome adversity, improve your performance, and allow you to maintain a healthy perspective on the game. It enables you to manage stress, make better decisions on the court, and enjoy the experience.

Controlling Anxiety

Tournament jitters are normal, but they can impact your game if left unchecked. To manage anxiety:

1. Take slow, deep breaths to calm your mind and body. For example, in between points, slow-count 1-2-3-4 as you inhale and then exhale through your nose.
2. Visualize positive outcomes and focus on your strengths.
3. Stick to your pre-game routine to create a sense of normalcy.

Maintaining Focus

Tournaments can be physically and mentally draining, but staying focused is key to success. To maintain focus:

1. Break down the game into smaller segments to stay present and engaged.
2. Use positive self-talk and visualization to keep your mind on the task at hand.
3. Avoid distractions, such as by not paying attention to spectators, and by focusing on the ball, your paddle, or the lines on the court to bring your attention into the present.

Not Getting Too Down on Yourself

No one's perfect, and mistakes are a natural part of the game. To avoid getting down on yourself:

1. Reframe negative thoughts by focusing on what you have done well; think about the next point, not the last one.

2. Practice self-compassion and give yourself credit for the hard work and practice you've put in.
3. Celebrate small victories and successes for both you and your partner throughout the day.

For many people, staying positive during a pickleball tournament can take some practice and dedication, but the payoff is worth it. By managing anxiety, maintaining focus, and avoiding negative self-talk, you can build a resilient mindset and enjoy the game to the fullest. Remember, the cardinal rule of pickleball is to HAVE FUN!

Happy pickling!

The History of Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 08 May 2024 17:55:30 GMT

Have you ever wondered how pickleball came to be a sport and why it has such a funny name? Well, if you have, you are not alone! Consider this your history lesson for today:

Pickleball was invented in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, just off the coast of Seattle, Washington. It was invented by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum one day while sitting around at the Pritchards’ home with their families, while everyone was bored with nothing to do. The men wanted to create a fun activity with odds and ends laying around the Pritchards’ house and garage that they could use to play a game.

Pritchard had a badminton net set up on an asphalt court, but he did not have enough rackets for a full game. So, instead, they improvised using spare ping pong paddles and a wiffle ball. The group found that the wiffle ball bounced fairly well on the asphalt court, but they thought that the net seemed a bit high, being set up to the badminton regulation height of 60 inches. So, they decided to lower the net down to 36 inches.

Over time, the families introduced the sport to their friends and the game took off from there, becoming more formalized and regulated over time.

But how exactly did the sport get the name “Pickleball”? There are two different potential origin stories, depending on who you ask. According to Pritchard’s wife, Joan, the game was called pickleball, because the combination of different sports reminded her of the pickle boat in crew where oarsmen were chosen from the leftovers of other boats. However, according to Barney McCallum, the game was actually named after Pritchard’s dog, who was named Pickles! So, no one really knows for sure where the name came from, and both stories may actually be true!

For more information about the history of the sport, see USA Pickleball’s, History of the Game.

What is the Third Shot Drop and Why is it So Important?

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 16:53:08 GMT

Pickleball is a game of strategy, and one of the most effective strategies is the third shot drop. This shot can be a literal game-changer, helping you control the pace of the game and setting yourself up for a win. But what is it, why is it effective, and when should you use it?

What Is the Third Shot Drop?

As the name suggests, the third shot drop is a shot that can be used in the third shot scenario of a pickleball game. The third shot drop is a shot that is hit by the serving team after the serve and return, usually from near the baseline. It is essentially a long dink, hit with more follow-through, that should land just past the net, in the non-volley zone (also known as the kitchen) on your opponent's side of the court. The ball should land softly and not bounce too high, lest that allow your opponents to slam the ball back at you.

Why Is It Effective?

The third shot drop is effective because it takes away your opponent's attacking options. By hitting the ball into the kitchen and not too close to the kitchen line, with a low, small bounce, you force your opponent to hit the ball up, giving you time to get to the net and set up for the next shot. It also gives you more time to react to your opponent's shot, as the ball will be traveling slower than if you had hit a hard shot. The third shot drop also makes it difficult for your opponents to be able to volley your return.

When Should You Use It?

You should use the third shot drop when you want to slow down the pace of the game and take control of the rally. It is especially effective against opponents who like to attack and hit hard shots, as it takes away their ability to hit groundstrokes and drives.

How to Master the Third Shot Drop

To master the third shot drop, you need to practice hitting soft shots from various places on your side of the court that barely clear the net and land in your opponent’s kitchen. Start by practicing your drops from the baseline, and gradually move closer to the net as you become more comfortable with the shot. Remember to keep your wrist locked. All motion for the third-shot drop should come from your shoulder, not your wrist. Be sure to make contact with the ball in front of your body. You want to hit the ball using a low-to-high, smooth motion with your paddle.

Video Demonstration

Here is a link to a YouTube video that demonstrates how to effectively hit third-shot drops: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QH4ijT1APLU

Disclaimer: The video was made by someone promoting Selkirk paddles. The views and opinions expressed in the video are solely those of the content producer(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of this author, CAPA, or other associated parties.

Conclusion

The third shot drop is an important shot to master in pickleball that can help you control the pace and strategy of the game. So, grab your paddle and start practicing your third shot drops today!

Happy pickling!

10 Safety Tips to Keep in Mind When Playing Pickleball This Season

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 20:38:43 GMT

Now that Spring seems to have sprung for real, more pickleball players are feeling the urge to hit the courts. Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure that you remain safe and healthy this Pickleball Season:

1. Warm-up and Stretch: Before jumping into the game, it’s essential to warm up your muscles and stretch. This helps reduce the risk of strains and sprains.

2. Wear Proper Footwear: Opt for court shoes with excellent traction to minimize the risk of slips and falls. Avoid running shoes, as they may not provide the stability and lateral support needed for the game.

3. Never run backwards: If you have to get a ball behind yourself, hop sideways, or turn and run, but never just run backwards! It is a recipe for tripping and getting a concussion.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after playing pickleball. Staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.

5. Use Protective Gear: Consider wearing eye protection to avoid injuries caused by rogue balls, hands, or paddles. Players with knee, elbow, shoulder, or ankle issues may benefit from wearing braces or supports. Be sure to also wear sunglasses and sunscreen with adequate UV protection when out in the sunshine.

6. Communicate Effectively: Good communication between players is essential for preventing collisions. Make sure to call out your shots and movements so your teammates know what to expect.

7. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep track of other players and spectators and be sure to clear away obstacles, such as extra balls, water bottles, towels, clothing, backpacks, etc. from the playing area.

8. Maintain Proper Technique: Learn and practice proper pickleball techniques, including the appropriate grip and swing. Incorrect technique can lead to injuries over time.

9. Listen to Your Body and Know Your Limitations: If you’re feeling pain or discomfort while playing, take a break, and consult with a medical professional if necessary. And, although it’s essential to challenge yourself on the court, avoid pushing too far beyond your limits. Incrementally increasing the intensity of your games can help reduce injury risks.

10. Stay Consistent with Maintenance: Regularly inspect your pickleball equipment for signs of wear and tear. Replace worn or damaged items to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Incorporating these safety tips into your pickleball routine can significantly reduce your risk of injury and help ensure an enjoyable experience on the court.

Happy pickling!

How to Win Against Bangers in Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:57:23 GMT

In pickleball, a “banger” is someone who consistently hits balls really, really hard, and who generally likes to overpower his/her opponents on every point. Chances are that if you play enough pickleball, you will eventually encounter these type of player opponents on the court. They can seem intimidating, unless you know effective strategies for modifying game play to allow you and your partner to stay in control of each rally. Some of these strategies include:

1. Return their serves deep to keep them back at the baseline as long as possible. Then, when they inevitably drive their return back at you or your partner, volley it back gently, just barely clearing the net and landing in the kitchen on the other side. This may win a point for your team, or it may result in them popping up the ball and allowing you or your partner to smash it back at them, or it may result in a dinking session (which they are unlikely to win, due to their likely inexperience with mid-game dinking).

2. Hit third shot drops to them, attempting to draw them into dinking sessions (which again, they are likely unaccustomed to and are therefore, less likely to win).

3. When returning volleys back to them, try to hold your paddle with a looser grip (perhaps 3 on a scale of 1-10, where 1 is loosest), so that if the ball is coming at you really hard, your volley return back will be soft and will result in the ball just barely clearing the net and landing in the kitchen on the other side.

4. An alternative suggestion for returning volleys is to return firm volleys at one of the banger’s feet. This will force him onto his heels and into a defensive position. He won’t be able to step into the ball and swing with all his strength. He may either miss the ball entirely or pop the ball back up to you, allowing you to smash a return back at him.

To execute the firm volley, make sure you have a firm grip pressure on your paddle (perhaps 7 or 8 on a scale of 1-10, where 10 is firmest) and be sure to extend your arm during the volley.

5. When serving to them, try to keep your serves to their backhands. Most people have less ability to drive their backhands than their forehands, so the ball is less likely to come back quite as hard.

6. Be sure to adhere to the adage of “chest high, let it fly!” This means that if a ball is coming at you at your chest level or higher, it is likely to end up going out of bounds. Many times, bangers hit balls so hard, that they will end up going out of bounds if we would only let them go instead of trying to volley them back. Remember to let balls go if they are going to land “out.”

Ultimately, defeating bangers usually means letting them make the mistakes or drawing them into a soft game.

And if YOU are a banger, remember that pickleball is a game that requires the ability to hit both hard and soft shots; shots with drive, as well as those with finesse.

Pickleball is a game with many layers and many strategies, which is what makes it so fun!

Keep pickling!

Current Netted Status of Outdoor Pickleball Courts in the Madison Area

Abigail Darwin — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 20:20:21 GMT

Below is the current netted status of outdoor pickleball courts in the Madison Area that CAPA leadership is aware of. This information is current as of April 12, 2024:

Bakken Park, Cottage Grove – nets are all up and lights are working
Community Park, Cottage Grove – nets are all up and lights are working
Fireman's Park, Deforest - nets are all up and lights are working
McGaw Park, Fitchburg - nets are up on all the courts
Garner Park, Madison – nets are up on all the courts
McFarland Park, McFarland – all nets are up
Taylor Park, Middleton – all nets are up
Winnequah Park, Monona - all 4 portable nets are out
Viking Park, Mt. Horeb - all 6 of the dedicated pickleball courts have nets up
Wyndham Hills Park, Sun Prairie – nets are up on all the courts, lights work from 5 a.m. - 7:15 a.m. and from 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. daily
Haven Park, Sun Prairie – nets are up on all the courts
Orfan Park, Sun Prairie – nets are up on all the courts
Mandt Park, Stoughton – all nets are up
Harriet Park, Verona – nets are up on all the courts
Kilkenny Park, Waunakee - nets are up on all the courts
Windsor Community Park, Windsor - nets are up on all the courts

If you know the netted status of other outdoor pickleball courts in the Greater Madison Area, please put that information in the comments or email me at akdarwin@gmail.com.

Summer Youth Pickleball in Sun Prairie!

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 01:32:21 GMT

Is there a middle schooler or high schooler you know who would like to play pickleball this summer? From June 11-July 31, every Tuesday and Wednesday, from 6-7:30 pm, there will be youth pickleball happening at the Wyndham Hills Courts in Sun Prairie! Middle schoolers (6-8 grade) will play on Tuesdays, and high schoolers (9-12 grade) will play on Wednesdays! It will be a combination of skills and games. Prior racket sport experience is preferred but not required. Registration is free!

Registration opens April 9 for Sun Prairie residents and April 16 for non-residents. Parents and guardians can register their kids at https://rec.cityofsunprairie.com/CourseActivities.aspx?id=19 . Enter keyword "pickleball." Then hit "search."

Registration will be open for 25 players in each grade division. Then, each week, sign-up will happen through playtimescheduler.com or a similar method for 16 students in each grade division. The first 16 to sign up each week will be "in" for that week. It is possible that for the first 1-2 weeks, we will invite all registrants to show up for group lessons to make sure everyone knows the basic rules and skills of the game.

Happy pickling!

What to Expect if You’re Playing Pickleball Outside on April 8, 2024

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 22:21:18 GMT

If you are playing pickleball outside in Madison, WI, on April 8, 2024, between the hours of 12:50 pm and 3:19 pm, you might notice that it will start to seemingly get kind of dark, almost like twilight, far too early. You may look at your watch and wonder if you need a new battery. Worry not, because I am about to explain to you what is going on – a solar eclipse!

That’s right! On April 8, 2024, the earth, moon and sun will be in just the right alignment such that the moon will be passing between the sun and the earth, casting a shadow on earth that will partially block the sun’s light in Madison. The eclipse will start at 12:50 pm, and the moon will reach maximum coverage of the sun at 2:05 pm. At that time, from our vantage point in Madison, approximately 86.9% of the sun will seem to be covered up. Very little light will shine around the moon. The eclipse will come to an end at 3:19 pm.

Some of you might be thinking: “Only 86.9% of the sun will be covered? Why bother going to look at something like that! I will just wait until Madison is in the path of complete totality of a solar eclipse so that 100% of the sun is covered up. Now THAT would be something worth seeing!” However, I would caution against waiting until the next total solar eclipse comes to town to go out and see it, because that won’t happen in Madison until September 14, 2099!

If you want to see the eclipse by staring directly at the sun, you will need to do so safely with some eclipse glasses. You can get a free pair at any of the Madison Public Library locations starting Tuesday, April 2, while supplies last.

If you would like more information about the upcoming eclipse, there will be a free talk at the Stoughton Public Library on April 2, at 6 pm. Registration is welcome but not required.

And, if you would like to attend a local viewing party (other than at the pickleball courts!) to see the eclipse with other revelers on April 8, here are some places where you can do so for free.

Happy pickling!

Ways to Play Pickleball in the Greater Madison Area in 2024!

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 15:18:24 GMT

Whether you are new to pickleball, new to the Greater Madison Area (GMA), or just looking for ideas to expand your current set of playing venues and pickleball friends, here are some suggestions for how to find new or additional places to play in the GMA in 2024:

Create a free account on Meetup.com and join the Madison Pickleball Meetup Group! The Meetup Group provides instruction for new players and offers various levels of open play for recreational players at different courts all over the GMA, usually for free!
Create a free account on playtimescheduler.com! Then, in My Account, you can create a profile and indicate at which locations you would like to play. When someone (including you) sets up an organized play session at one of those locations for your skill level, you will be notified and can sign up. Almost all these play sessions are free, and if they are not, it will say so in the notes.
Join the Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) at capareapb.com. CAPA promotes and supports the game in the GMA and sponsors fun events, skills & drills, leagues, and tournaments for all levels. They also provide information about other local pickleball events and tournaments that may be of interest to players. It costs $15/year to join but is well worth it!
Consult your community recreation department! Check the websites of your city, village, or school district under “Recreation” or a similar tab on their website to see if they offer classes, leagues, or open play. In Madison, go to mscr.org to add your name to the email list to receive a free course catalog the next time it comes out so you will know when to register for the next session of pickleball classes and open plays!
Check out open play at a nearby court! To locate outdoor courts in the GMA, go to capareapb.com and click on “Where to Play”. Then visit some in person and look for the posted days and times for open plays. Open play information is usually posted near the main court entrance doors.
Play at a local indoor commercial facility! To locate indoor courts in the GMA, go to capareapb.com and click on “Where to Play”. Local indoor facilities have fun activities, including open plays, leagues, and “King of the Court.” Most will usually also let you reserve a court of your own if you want to invite friends to play with you.

For some of the suggestions listed above, it will be necessary for you to have some idea of your ranking. You can rank yourself by going to the USA Pickleball website’s “Definitions of Player Skill Ratings” page and seeing where you think you best fit on the skills continuum.

You should also be aware that here in Wisconsin, you will undoubtedly find many more opportunities to play pickleball, especially outdoors, during the warm weather months of April to September.

Happy pickling! See you on the courts!

New Dedicated Pickleball Courts Coming to City of Madison in the Next 2-3 Years!

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 18:30:02 GMT

As many of you know, the city of Madison currently has only 6 dedicated pickleball courts, which are all located at Garner Park. There are many more tennis courts that are also lined for pickleball, but the only courts that are specifically designated just for pickleball are at Garner Park. That is not very many dedicated pickleball courts for a city that has a population of over 275,000 people!

So, I decided to email the Madison Parks Division and ask if they had any plans to build more dedicated pickleball courts in the city of Madison. On March 14, 2024, Ann Shea, Public Information Officer for the Parks Division, responded back that, “We do plan to build a new court complex at Warner Park in the next 2 to 3 years. Parks Planning & Development will reach out to [CAPA] as the process to develop begins.”

And, on March 18, 2024, Ann Freiwald, Planning and Development Manager for the Madison Parks Division, emailed me to say that in addition, "Old Timber Park will be getting a two court pickleball court soon (ish). Exact time frame is not known but I would say within the next two years, three at the most." I subsequently confirmed with her that these courts will also be dedicated pickleball courts. (If you are wondering where Old Timber Park is located, it is on Madison's far west side. The address is 10305 Hazy Sky Pkwy, Madison, WI, 53593.)

This is exciting news for pickleball players in and around Madison!

The Importance of Wearing Court Shoes When Playing Pickleball

Abigail Darwin — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:22:31 GMT

Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced sport that requires quick movements, sudden stops, and agile footwork. As with most sports, having the right footwear can significantly impact your performance and safety. In this blog post, we'll explore why wearing court shoes is important for pickleball players.

Enhanced Traction and Grip

Court shoes are specifically designed to provide excellent traction and grip on indoor and outdoor court surfaces. They have specialized rubber soles with intricate tread patterns that improve grip, allowing for better maneuverability, quicker starts and stops, and more stable footwork. This enhanced traction minimizes the risk of slipping or falling, reducing the likelihood of injuries.

Lateral Support and Stability

Pickleball requires a lot of side-to-side movements, which can put a significant strain on your ankles and feet. Court shoes are built to provide lateral support and stability, which helps to prevent ankle rolls and other injuries. The additional support also improves balance, allowing for more precise shots and better overall performance.

Comfort and Breathability

Court shoes are designed with breathable materials that allow air to circulate around your feet, keeping them cool and dry even during intense games. Additionally, they feature cushioned insoles and padded collars to provide comfort and support, reducing foot fatigue and allowing you to play for longer periods.

Injury Prevention

Perhaps the most crucial reason for wearing court shoes is injury prevention. The right shoes can minimize the impact on your joints, reduce stress on your feet, and decrease the risk of blisters, ankle sprains, and other injuries. By investing in high-quality court shoes, you're investing in your long-term health and pickleball career.

Conclusion

If you are an avid pickleball player, wearing court shoes is essential for optimal performance, safety, and enjoyment of the sport. So, if you're still playing in your running or cross-training shoes, it may be time to upgrade to a pair of court shoes!

How Do I Figure Out My Pickleball Skill Rating?

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 15:53:29 GMT

Do you want to know your pickleball skill level? We will discuss a couple of the simplest and most common ways for you to do that.

USA Pickleball – Self-Rating

The easiest way is to self-rate yourself. You can do this by going to USA Pickleball’s website and looking up what players of different skill ratings from 1.0 – 5.5+ can and cannot do and figuring out where you fall on the continuum.

DUPR

Another easy and more accurate way to get a rating is to join Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR). You will definitely want to get a DUPR account if you intend to play on any leagues or in tournaments, since many are requiring that you have a DUPR account so that they can enter scores into the system. You can create a free DUPR account by going to myDUPR.com or by downloading the DUPR app onto your mobile device. Additional instructions are available below.

What is DUPR?

Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating is the most accurate and only global rating system in pickleball. All players, regardless of their age, gender, location, or skill are rated on the same scale between 2.00 - 8.00, based on their match results.

Who Can Have a DUPR Rating?

Anyone can have a DUPR rating! DUPR is free and strictly voluntary.

How Does a Player Get Rated on DUPR?

When a player first joins DUPR, it assumes the individual has a rating of 3.5. As that person plays more matches, their rating moves up or down, based on a complex algorithm that factors in things like wins, losses, the ratings of the opponents, and whether they won or lost games by the expected amount. As an individual plays more matches, their rating becomes more accurate. Any match can be recorded into DUPR, as long as all players agree that they want it to be recorded and someone in the group inputs the scores into the DUPR system.

To Sign Up for DUPR…

Go to mydupr.com
Check for your name under search players. If you are in the DUPR system, claim your account.
If you are not already in the DUPR system, find and click “sign up.”
Set up your account. It only takes a few minutes.
Once you have an account, scroll down on your home page to My Clubs. Click and browse for CAPA DUPR Club. Click and join our club.

Add the DUPR app to you cell phone, tablet, or computer.

How to Record Scores Into DUPR

Anybody can set up DUPR scoring matches. The key is that all players need to have DUPR accounts, and everyone must agree to have the match results recorded.

If a player doesn’t have a DUPR account, when recording scores, you can use the “add a player” feature to invite players to join DUPR.

It’s easy to record matches. Click on “add a match,” and then enter players and scores. Then submit your entry. Your match will show up in your Match History.

Any DUPR player can enter scores of a match, but only matches that they played in. Once they do this, an email goes out to the opponents to validate that the information entered is correct. The match remains in “pending match results” until validation takes place.

That’s it! It’s that easy!

Is Your Serve Legal?

Abigail Darwin — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 15:25:40 GMT

There are two kinds of serves in pickleball – the volley serve, which you hit out of the air, and the drop serve, which you hit after it bounces.

Drop Serve

If you want to use a drop serve, there are significantly fewer rules to follow. You mainly have to remember that you cannot add force to the bounce (you literally have to just drop it). You can drop it anywhere on the playing surface, whether in front of or behind the baseline. And you can hit it however you want.

Volley Serve

If you want to hit a volley serve instead, then there are three rules you have to follow:

You must hit the ball with the paddle head below your wrist.
You must make contact with the ball below your waist. (“Waist” used to be defined in the official Rulebook as the navel until 2020, but the rules are no longer that technical. So now, “waist” just refers to the general area where you bend.)
You have to hit the ball with your arm making an upward arcing motion.

Where to Stand

When serving either a drop serve or a volley serve, you must stand behind the baseline, between the sideline and the centerline, on whatever side of the court you are serving from.

Where Must the Serve Land?

The serve must land in the service court that is diagonally opposite the server across the net. The serve may also land on any of the service court lines, including the centerline, the baseline or the sideline. The ball cannot, however, land in the kitchen or on the kitchen lines. If the ball hits the net and bounces into the correct service court, it is considered “good.”

Communicating With Your Partner

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:55:32 GMT

If you play doubles in pickleball, there are some things that you and your partner should consider communicating about before a game or tournament to maximize your effectiveness as a team. Here are some important topics that you and your partner may want to discuss before you ever set foot on the court:

If there is a short shot, who will get it? This is a particularly important point to discuss if one player is a considerably faster runner than the other. On the other hand, if both partners are in equal physical conditioning, then they would probably agree to each run down their own balls! The exception to this would be if one of the players were out of position, in which case, it might be wise to yell “yours” and let the other player try to get the ball.
If there is a lob, who will get it? Do one or both partners intend to hit every lob as an overhead? Do one or both players intend to run down every ball that is launched over him? Or, would one or both players prefer that in a lob situation, the other player run down the ball behind their partner, yell “switch,” and then they would temporarily switch which sides of the court they are defending? This may be particularly helpful in a situation where one of the players has a neck or shoulder injury.
If both or neither player have forehands in the middle, who will cover the middle? Both players could have a forehand in the middle in a stacking situation, for example. So, in that case, the player with the stronger forehand would want to be the one to take most of the shots that land in the middle. However, if one of the players is a leftie but the team does not like to stack, for example, then there could be situations where neither player has a forehand in the middle. The players should discuss whose backhand is stronger to handle shots that land in the middle in those situations.
The players should decide ahead of time that they will call every ball that is even mildly ambiguous by yelling “got it” or “mine/yours.” That way, very few or (ideally) no balls will be missed, especially those that come down the middle.
The players should agree to call “watch it,” “bounce,” or something similar, to assist their partner if a ball looks like it is going to land outside the bounds of the court. Note that according to the 2024 Official Rulebook, Rule 6.C.10., a player CAN call a ball “out,” before it bounces, and it is only considered partner communication. Only after the ball bounces is saying “out” considered an actual line call! See Rule 6.C.11.
If one player accidentally hits a short lob, they should yell, “Heads up!” to alert their partner that she may wish to retreat to the baseline and/or just generally protect herself!
The partners should decide if they want to stack. Stacking can be done either because one player is left-handed and one player is right-handed, in order to ensure that one player always has a forehand in the middle, but it can also be done to ensure that one player with a stronger forehand or a weaker backhand is always on one side of the court.
Partners should always call each other’s lines in or out, so that their partner can focus on hitting the ball.
The players should discuss whether the other’s preference is to hit third shot drops or third shot drives.
Discuss whether the other one likes to lob a lot.
The players should also discuss whether their partner is a patient dinker or whether they are instead someone who likes to speed up the ball in a dinking match.
Discuss whether to do casual poaching, and retreat back to prior positions afterward, or whether to do more hard-core, switch-sides-of-the-court-style poaching.

Partner communication is critical to being a good partner in pickleball. But remember that everyone’s communication style is different, and no matter how much you and your partner prepare before the game, there will still be unexpected situations that crop up! As long as you and your partner are having fun, you know you have found a keeper.

What is and is Not Allowed in the Kitchen

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 23:36:50 GMT

Ah the kitchen … or if you’re fancy, the “Non-Volley Zone,” or if you’re really fancy, the "NVZ." It is that 7-foot-long by 20-foot-wide area right in front of the net on each side of the pickleball court that gives players so many fits. It has an aura of mystique surrounding it, particularly for many beginners. In this blog post, we will discuss what is and is not allowed in the kitchen.

I am aware that there are many myths swirling around out there about the kitchen, so I already know that some of you will read what I am about to write below and will doubt whether what I am saying is true. Because of this, I am going to cite to the actual rules in the USA Pickleball 2024 Official Rulebook to back up what I am saying.

What is Allowed in the Kitchen:

If a ball bounces in the kitchen, you can step inside the kitchen to return it back over the net. See Rule 9.F. This happens frequently when dinking, for example.
You can stand in the kitchen during a game and during a point for as long as you want. See Rule 9.G. It is not a good idea (for reasons we will discuss shortly), but if you are just captivated by the kitchen and have always wanted to venture in there, go ahead. See Rule 9.E. I promise that, as a general matter, with a few exceptions discussed below, simply going into the kitchen will not itself prove to be some sort of illegal violation. So, do it. Saunter into the kitchen, just because you have always wanted to walk in there during a point; you can even pose for a selfie while you are in there! (Just be sure to discuss with your partner in advance that you would like them to cover the entire court while you are doing your thing.)
A person can return a ball even while their partner is standing in the kitchen. See Rule 9.H.
Any shots, except a serve, can be hit into and land in the kitchen. See Section 1, Unique Features, and Rule 4.M.3. This means any volley, overhead, groundstroke, dink, drop, or drive – as long as it is not a serve – can be hit into the kitchen.

What is NOT Allowed in the Kitchen:

You cannot volley – that is, hit a ball in the air before it bounces -- while you are standing in the kitchen. See Section 1, Unique Features, and Rule 9.A. Even having one of your toes on the kitchen line constitutes a violation, because the kitchen line is considered to be part of the kitchen. (Since we are on the topic, the kitchen sidelines are also considered to be part of the kitchen, too -- just FYI.) See Rules 2.B.3 and 3.A.22.

-So, to recap, you cannot hit a volley while standing in the kitchen, on the kitchen line or on the kitchen sideline. See Rules 2.B.3 and 3.A.22. In addition, however, you also cannot hit a volley from OUTSIDE the kitchen and then FALL INTO the kitchen if your momentum from hitting the volley propels you in. See Rule 9.B.1. This whole “momentum making you fall in” thing constitutes a violation even if the ball has already bounced on the other side after you hit your volley and has come back over! Your momentum would even cause a violation if the point had already ended and the ball was dead! See Rules 8.E. and 9.C.1.

-If an item of clothing or anything on you, like a cap, sunglasses, or a handkerchief, falls into the kitchen while you are (or as a result of you) hitting a volley, that is considered a fault, and your team loses the point. See Rule 11.H.

-Note that if you linger in the kitchen – like if you stay in there to take a selfie – it is likely, dare I say probable, that your opponents will try to hit a shot right at you. In pickleball, if an opponent’s shot hits you before it bounces, it is the opponent’s point. See Rule 7.H. And, if you are standing in the kitchen, the only way you could hit a ball that is coming right at you would be to hit it in the air as a volley. That would be a fault, because you cannot hit a ball in the air while standing in the kitchen. See Section 1, Unique Features, and Rule 9.A.

A serve cannot land in the kitchen or on the kitchen line. See Rules 3.A.22., 2.B.3., 4.M.3. and 6.B. That serve would be considered “out.”

-Also, if a serve hits the net and lands in the kitchen, that serve is also considered “out.” See Rule 4.M.5.

You might be wondering who calls kitchen violations when they occur. The answer is that in regular, non-officiated play, anyone can call a fault on anyone, including themselves! See Rules 13.D.1.a., 13.D.1.b., and 13.D.1.c. And, because pickleball is such a friendly sport, self-policing is what usually happens in the case of kitchen mishaps. After all, you are the one most likely to realize that you stepped into the kitchen when you hit that volley!

Since knowledge is power, after reading this post, it is my hope that you will have less fear and a lot more confidence on the court! Happy pickling!

The Benefits of Playing Pickleball As We Age

Abigail Darwin — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 19:24:36 GMT

We all know that exercise is important, and as we age, physical
activity becomes even more valuable for preserving physical and mental
health. However, the prospect of getting regular exercise can be
daunting when it isn’t fun (for example, running countless loops
around a track or climbing a stair stepper to nowhere).

This is where pickleball comes in! Pickleball is the fastest growing
sport in America. It is a combination of tennis, ping-pong and
badminton. Although pickleball was invented in 1965 just outside
Seattle, it has gained increasing popularity in recent years,
especially (but not exclusively) among Baby Boomers. According to the
Sports & Fitness Industry Association, the number of pickleball
players grew 14.8% between 2020 and 2021. In a 2022 report, the Sports
& Fitness Industry Association noted that as of 2022, 4.8 million
Americans played pickleball. And, of the 1.4 million “core”
participants (those who played 8+ times per year), over half were 55+
years of age, and approximately one-third were 65 or older.

Here are some reasons why pickleball is an ideal sport for seniors:

-It is a low-impact sport that is relatively easy on the joints. The
smaller court size (44 by 20 feet) and lower net (compared to tennis)
and plastic, whiffle-like ball make it easier on the hips, knees and
shoulders, compared to other sports like tennis or basketball. To give
you an idea of how small a pickleball court is, you could fit about
four standard pickleball courts on a single tennis court! Pickleball
entails less running and jumping than tennis, making it less likely to
result in injuries. In addition, serving is underhand (not overhand,
like in tennis), which makes the game easier to play and less taxing
on arm muscles.

-It can improve health. Despite being a low-impact sport, it involves
a lot of physical movement and can be fast-paced, making it an
excellent form of cardio exercise. In a 2016 study published in
Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 12 middle-aged players burned
40% more calories playing pickleball for 30 minutes than by walking
for the same amount of time. In addition, a 2018 study in the
International Journal of Research in Exercise Physiology found that
middle-aged and older adults who played one hour of pickleball three
days per week for six weeks improved their blood pressure,
cholesterol, and cardiorespiratory fitness levels. Maintaining a
healthy blood pressure, cholesterol level and cardiovascular system
can help prevent hypertension, stroke and heart attack.

-It provides opportunities to be social. Pickleball is often played
as doubles, and often with complete strangers who just happen to also
be at the same pickleball courts as you. This means that seniors can
make new friends and/or stay connected with family and friends who
also enjoy playing the game.

-It boosts mood and reduces the risk of depression by increasing
endorphins and providing opportunities to socialize. A 2018 study
published in Leisure Studies found that older adults who played in
pickleball tournaments had a lower risk of depression.

-It improves physical coordination and balance. Pickleball requires
the use of quick reflexes and eye-hand/eye-foot coordination. By
playing the sport and improving balance and coordination, seniors can
reduce their risk of falls and injuries.

-It provides mental stimulation. Playing pickleball requires focus,
strategic thinking and quick decision-making. Studies have shown that
mentally stimulating activities can help to improve cognitive function
and reduce the risk of dementia in older adults.

-Pickleball is relatively easy to learn. The rules are fairly simple
– points can only be earned by the side that is serving, and the
winner is the first side to get to 11 points, win by 2 - and the game
is played on a small court with a relatively slow-moving ball, making
it a fun and engaging sport that can be picked up rather quickly by
almost everyone, regardless of age, body type or athletic ability. It
is a sport that can be played competitively or recreationally, and it
provides players with skills to improve upon the more they play.

-It is a relatively inexpensive sport that can be played standing or
in wheelchairs, year-round, both indoors and outdoors. Paddles start
at about $10, balls are about $3 each, and most outdoor courts are
free. Many YMCAs and school gyms provide affordable indoor courts
during the winter. In addition, the Silver Sneakers program, offered
by many Medicare Advantage plans and some Medigap plans, covers gym
membership at many facilities that include pickleball. You can go to
the USA Pickleball Association’s website -
https://www.places2play.org/ - and enter your zip code to find places
to play near you. And, if all else fails, you can always buy a
do-it-yourself pickleball court kit from Amazon.com and convert a
tennis court near you into a pickleball court quite easily! The USA
Pickleball Association’s website even includes “Do it Yourself”
instructions for creating your own pickleball court almost anywhere.
See https://usapickleball.org/what-is-pickleball/court-diagram/do-it-yourself-guidelines/ .

-It is a game that can be played together by people of all ages.
Currently, the average pickleball player’s age is 38, so it is a sport
that can be enjoyed together by individuals of different generations.
Even kids can play the sport!

So, the next time you are thinking you should exercise more but
wishing you could find a fun activity to make the exercise not feel so
grueling, consider trying pickleball.

Which is Better for Adding Spin - A Smooth or Textured Paddle?

Abigail Darwin — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 19:18:32 GMT

Most players would agree that one of the most critical pieces of equipment for excelling at the sport of pickleball is the paddle. Have you ever wondered whether a smooth or textured surface is better for adding spin? In this blog post, we'll explore which type of paddle is better for adding spin to your pickleball game.

Smooth Paddles

Smooth paddles are generally less expensive than textured paddles, making them a good option for beginners or players on a budget. However, smooth paddles may not be the best choice for players looking to add spin to their shots. The smooth surface does not generate as much friction on the ball as a textured surface, making it harder to apply spin.

Textured Paddles

Textured paddles have a surface with grit, tiny grooves, or patterns that creates friction on the ball. This increased friction makes it easier for players to add sidespin, topspin, underspin, or any other kind of spin you’d care to name to their shots! Applying spin generally makes it harder for opponents to return the ball. Textured paddles are generally more expensive than smooth paddles, but the increased winning advantage it could give you on the court may be worth it.

Different Types of Surface Textures

If you are looking for a paddle with a textured surface that will allow you to add more spin to your shots, you will notice that some paddles seem to have what looks like grit painted onto them and others that seem to have the texture built into their very fiber (usually carbon fiber, no pun intended!).

Although paddles with “paint grit” feel very rough when first taken out of their original packaging and can add a lot of great spin initially, the grit wears down very quickly after just a few sessions of heavy play. And while these paddles may be less expensive, you will soon be left with a smooth and un-spinful paddle.

The most durable and spin-iest paddles tend to be the ones that are made of carbon fiber or graphite and which have a rough texture that almost feels like it is built into the paddle face. Although these paddles are more expensive and the texture will still wear out over time, they are by far some of the best quality paddles on the market today and will likely help take your game to the next level!

Pickleball Rule Changes for 2024

Abigail Darwin — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 19:06:22 GMT

USA Pickleball has finalized and released the 2024 Official Rulebook. Twenty-seven rule changes and/or new rules were approved for 2024, and here are a handful that you should know about.

Faults for incorrect server, incorrect receiver, and player position errors have been eliminated. In officiated tournament play, the referee will now correct any such player errors before calling the score. See Rule 4.B.9.
The words “deliberately” and “unintentional” were removed in Rules 7.L (the carry rule) and 11.A (the double hit rule), respectively. As a result, a referee in officiated play no longer has to determine intent. Any carry is now a fault, whether it was deliberate or not. Note that a double hit is still permitted, as long as it happens in one, continuous motion.
Rule 10.B.2.c (medical time-outs) allows an injured player to tack on any available remaining standard time-outs after the 15-minute medical time-out has expired. This is intended to allow the player more time before potentially having to retire from a match. The 2023 rule seemingly implied that an injured player would have to retire if they were not able to resume play after the 15-minute medical time out was over.
Rule 13.L allows players in non-officiated play situations to request that a referee or Tournament Director make an official determination regarding whether an opponent’s paddle is legal for play.
Rule 11.E has been amended to allow a replay of a completed rally in tournament play if a ball is cracked or broken and all players agree that the cracked or broken ball affected the outcome of the rally. No replay is provided merely because the ball is found to be damaged or “soft.” The ball can, however, be replaced.
Although the rule has not changed yet, the USA Pickleball Board of Directors is considering potentially changing scoring from its current form to rally scoring. However, this new rule change is still in pending status, as the Board wants to collect more data before issuing a final decision.