There’s nothing worse than a game ruined by bad behavior—someone arguing over calls, ignoring basic rules, or taking the game way too seriously. Pickleball is meant to be fun, and a big part of that is knowing how to play with good etiquette. If you want to enjoy the game and make sure others do too, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind every time you step on the court.
1. Respect the Court and Other Players
✅ Do:
- Greet your opponents and partners with a smile and a friendly hello before starting the game.
- Wait for a point to finish before crossing a court to retrieve a ball.
- Keep noise levels reasonable when near courts in use.
❌ Don’t:
- Walk onto an active court while a rally is in play.
- Leave trash or personal belongings scattered around the court.
🎥 Watch: Basic Pickleball Etiquette – Must-Know Rules
2. Follow the Rules and Be Honest
✅ Do:
- Call lines fairly and give your opponents the benefit of the doubt.
- If you’re unsure about a call, replay the point rather than arguing.
- Keep track of the score and announce it clearly before serving.
❌ Don’t:
- Argue excessively over close calls—pickleball is meant to be fun!
- Cheat or take advantage of inexperienced players who may not know all the rules.
🎥 Watch: Unspoken Rules in Pickleball
3. Be a Good Partner and Opponent
✅ Do:
- Encourage your partner, even if they make mistakes.
- Compliment good shots from both your teammate and opponents.
- Apologize if you accidentally hit someone with the ball.
❌ Don’t:
- Criticize or coach your partner during play unless they ask for advice.
- Celebrate excessively when your opponent makes an unforced error.
4. Serve and Play at a Respectful Pace
✅ Do:
- Serve when your opponents are ready.
- Keep the game moving to respect others waiting for a court.
- Allow new players to join in during open play sessions.
❌ Don’t:
- Take too long between points or excessively delay serves.
- Refuse to rotate or let others play in community courts.
📍 Find a Court Near You: Pickleball Court Finder
5. Control Your Emotions and Sportsmanship
✅ Do:
- Accept wins and losses graciously.
- Shake hands or paddle tap at the end of each match.
- Keep a positive attitude, even if you’re having an off day.
❌ Don’t:
- Slam paddles, throw balls, or use inappropriate language.
- Get frustrated with beginners who are still learning.
🎥 Watch: Pickleball Sportsmanship: What You Need to Know
Final Thoughts
Pickleball is growing in popularity, and a big part of its appeal is the welcoming and friendly atmosphere. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that everyone has a positive experience on the court. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, good etiquette makes pickleball more enjoyable for all!
Are you ready to hit the courts with confidence? Check out these resources to level up your pickleball skills:
🔗 Find a place to play: Join Pickle Manias Club
What’s your biggest pickleball pet peeve? Drop a comment below and let us know! 🎾✨