Recreational Play

Recreational play is open to all pickleball players to come and play as a drop-in with other pickleball players. There is no fee to play in the outdoor facility at Dick Samp Park which currently has twelve outdoor courts. The Aquatic Center has indoor pickleball a few times a week so check the Calendar page for scheduled dates/times to play. The ARK used to have indoor pickleball in the gym but they are currently closed for pickleball play due to renovations taking place.
PICKLEBALL ETIQUETTE
BASIC COURTESY
-
Introduce yourself to your partner and opponents before play starts.
-
Compliment all players on great shots and volleys.
-
Opponents call your shots in or out. You may disagree but it’s their call.
-
Tap paddles after each game, say ‘thanks’ or ‘great game,’ keep it positive.
-
Gently toss or roll the ball to the next server so he/she doesn’t have to chase after it.
-
Banter is part of the fun, especially if you know the other players. Be sensitive with unknown players.
PARTNERS
-
Does your partner ignore basic strategy, make same mistakes repeatedly, and so on? Remain positive. It’s just a game and it only lasts a few minutes.
-
Want to play a certain style, stacking for instance? Ask your partner if it’s okay. Don’t dictate.
-
Tap paddles between serves. It feels good, builds team spirit.
-
Help beginners improve. Ask if they’d like pointers when you play together. Tell them about training and strategy info on national and local websites.
SKILL LEVELS
-
Never tell someone they’re not good enough to play on a particular court. It’s okay to suggest moving to a court that’s in that person’s skill level.
-
Everyone prefers playing at or near their own skill level and getting a good workout but that’s not always doable.
See number 4 under Court Usage.
COURT USAGE
-
Four off, four on after each game ends is the standard when all courts are in use and players are waiting.
-
Never place your paddle ahead of others already in the queue.
-
Want to play with certain people? Place your paddles together at the end of the queue and have others skip past you until you’re the next foursome.
-
Monitor your paddle in the queue and be ready to play when the time comes.
-
Put your name on your paddle so if you’re distracted, your name can be called when it’s your turn. It’s a smart thing to do anyway, keeps paddles from getting lost or adopted.