Everything I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Picked Up A Pickleball Paddle

Let’s be honest.

You’ve probably heard someone talk about pickleball and thought, “Isn’t that for retirees in Florida?”

Or maybe you were invited to a session and played along like you knew what was going on — only to secretly Google it later.

We’ve all been there but here’s the thing: pickleball is blowing up for a reason. It’s simple, social, surprisingly competitive, and more than anything — it’s just fun.

Whether you’re here because your friend wouldn’t stop talking about their Sunday doubles game, or you’re just curious why all your coworkers suddenly have court shoes — this is your very chill guide to everything pickleball.

🥒 What is Pickleball, Really?

At its core, pickleball is a sport that combines the best parts of tennis, badminton, and ping pong — and somehow makes it less intimidating and more addictive:

• It’s played on a court roughly one-third the size of a tennis court.

• You use a paddle (bigger than a ping pong paddle) and a plastic wiffle ball.

• Most games are doubles (2v2), but singles work too.

• The vibe? Social, fast-paced, playful, and welcoming.

It’s competitive enough to challenge you — but casual enough for a first-timer to jump in and enjoy from game one.

🎯The Rules (Without the Overwhelm)

Let’s skip the textbook and stick to what you actually need to know:

1. Games start with an underhand serve across the court, diagonally.

2. After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before anyone hits it in the air. This is called the “two-bounce rule.”

3. There’s a zone near the net called “the kitchen”. You can’t volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing in it.

4. You score only when your team is serving.

5. Games are played to 11 points, win by 2.

Confused? That’s normal. But honestly, once you’re on the court, it all starts to make sense within a game or two.

🧢 What You Need To Play

One of the best things about pickleball? Low barrier to entry. You don’t need a ton of equipment to start.

Your starter kit:

• A paddle (plenty of people have spares if you don’t own one)

• A pickleball or two (the neon plastic kind with holes)

• Comfortable clothes + sneakers or court shoes

• Water bottle (hydration is a must)

• Sunscreen (if you’re outdoors)

• Optional: a smile, a sense of humor, and a willingness to miss a few shots

💬 Why Is Everyone Talking About It?

Because it’s genuinely fun — and almost too easy to get hooked. Here’s why people love it:

✅ Beginner-friendly: You don’t have to be fit or athletic to start
✅ Quick games: 15–20 minutes per round = fast bonding
✅ No gym required: Just show up at a court, often outdoors
✅ Social vibe: You’ll laugh, sweat, and high-five strangers
✅ Cross-generational: Young adults, parents, even grandparents all play — often together

Pickleball is one of those rare things that pulls people off screens and into real-life connection. That’s why we built Oncourtt around it.

💡 Common Questions New Players Ask

“Do I need to know how to play before joining?”

Nope. Not even a little. Many people at our sessions are first-timers. It’s easy to pick up and everyone remembers what it was like to start — they’ll help you out.

“Is it a workout?”

Yes, but it’s the fun kind. You’ll move, run a little, and get your heart rate up — but it’s lower impact than tennis or squash. Great for all fitness levels.

“What if I’m bad?”

Then you’re just like the rest of us when we started. This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about playing, connecting, and having a good time.

❤️ Why Pickleball Is the Heart of Oncourtt

At Oncourtt, we’re all about authentic connection. And we believe one of the best ways to meet people is by doing something together, rather than just talking behind a screen.

• Pickleball gives you:

• A natural setting to connect

• Built-in shared interest

• A space where your energy, not your profile, does the talking

• Safe, moderated group sessions (so you don’t feel awkward or out of place)

This isn’t dating with pressure. This is meeting people at your own pace, while doing something you might just fall in love with — even if it’s not a person (yet 😉).

🚀 Your First Game? Here’s What to Expect

You show up. You're welcomed by the host.

You’re paired with a partner and maybe forget how to keep score, but someone calls it out for you.

You miss the first few balls. Laugh.
Get your footing. Return a good shot. High five. Feel kind of amazing.

You play again. And just like that… you’re hooked.

✨ Final Words (From One Beginner to Another)

Don’t wait until you’re “ready.” Don’t overthink the rules. Don’t stress about being awkward.

Just come as you are.

We’re all out here figuring it out — one serve, one laugh, one connection at a time.

Welcome to Oncourtt.

Welcome to pickleball.

Let’s play.