FAQs
Pickleball, like it’s name, has what may appear to be strange terms when you start, but don’t worry, Frenz players are a friendly lot and help each other out.
You’ll be given an introduction session and then mix with people who will work through scoring and other bits and bobs you may find confusing, as you play along.
Unsure, then just ask, that’s what Frenz are for.
Why is it called ‘pickleball’?
Pickleball was first played on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, Washington State, USA. Rumour has it that the the first players had a dog called ‘pickles’ who would chase the ball. But it might be an urban myth.
Congressman Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum invented the game of pickleball in the summer of in 1965. Legend has it the kids were bored so the dads invented the new sport by piecing together the equipment from three sports: some old ping-pong paddles, a whiffle ball and a badminton net.
Who can play?
Anyone.
It’s particularly popular with seniors, because of the smaller size of court than in tennis, the lighter paddle and the light balls. It’s easy to learn, so people can be playing within an hour, and it can be flexible in the rules to accommodate physical as well as age differences.
Enough fun to keep youngsters involved, challenging enough for the competitive and social enough for all.
What is the Purpose of the Double Bounce Rule in pickleball?
The double-bounce rule, or two bounce rule, states that each team must let the ball bounce on their first shot, so the serve must bounce on the other side of the net and the return of serve must also bounce before playing it. The idea is to avoid serve and smash points, so there’s more skill and elongated points, rather than relying on brute force.
Can I serve overarm, like in tennis?
No. Serving has to be under arm.
What’s the ‘kitchen’?
The ‘kitchen’, or Non-Volley Zone (NVZ), is a 7 foot area each side of the net. Players can not be in that area when they volley, although they can reach into it, so long as their feet stay out-side the kitchen, nor can your momentum from the shot carry you into the kitchen after the shot.
If the ball bounces in the kitchen, you can go into the kitchen and will probably ‘dink’ a return.
How much does it cost?
We offer a free intro hour to new players, then game sessions are currently £5 for 2 hours.
Equipment is provided and if you decide you want to buy a paddle, then we can help with substantial discounts as we buy in bulk.
Do I need to book?
Just let us know in advance for the first time, (steveclasses2020@gmail.com) then, if you are keen and want to keep coming we will add you to our notification and booking app.
It’s pay on the day, cash only at present.