Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis into a fun, accessible game enjoyed by people of all ages. Governed by national bodies such as USA Pickleball and featured in international events, its rapid rise in popularity creates a question for fans and newcomers: Why is it called pickleball?
In this guide, we’ll explore the early days of the sport, where pickleball was first played, and discuss the two leading theories about how it got its standout name, which has a debated origin story.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just discovering the game, you can enjoy playing at our state-of-the-art pickleball courts in Horsham. At Bluecoat Sports, you can easily hire a court or book onto our social pickleball sessions. We look forward to welcoming you.
For more information on pickleball court hire and booking classes, please call 01403 247572.
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a hybrid paddle sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played on a court similar in size to a doubles badminton court, it uses a solid pickleball paddle, distinct from table tennis paddles or ping pong paddles, and a lightweight plastic ball with holes, often compared to a wiffle ball due to its perforated design.
The game can be played in singles or doubles and includes unique features such as the double bounce rule and the non-volley zone line, also known as the “kitchen”. These rules make it easier for new pickleball players to join in, while still offering enough complexity to challenge pickleball professionals.
Pickleball can be played on temporary or permanent courts and has grown in popularity among tennis clubs, leisure centres, and fitness venues. It’s ideal for the whole family, older adults, and anyone returning to sport after a break.
If you’re new to the sport, check out our guide on How To Start Playing Pickleball for all the basics you need to get started.
The origins and history of pickleball
- Three friends invented pickleball in 1965
- It originated in America
- Pickleball’s popularity means it’s now played globally
The origins of pickleball trace back to the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, where friends Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum created the game as a family-friendly activity. Faced with limited equipment, they crafted a new sport using a perforated plastic ball, wooden paddles, and a repurposed badminton court, designed to be inclusive, active, and fun for all ages.
Although early versions used makeshift equipment, including basic paddles and a perforated ball, the game quickly evolved. The group began refining the rules, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and sharing the game with friends and neighbours. What started as a spontaneous backyard activity soon grew into a regular pastime.
The first permanent pickleball court was constructed in the backyard of close family friend Bob O’Brian, further cementing the sport’s place as more than just a summer novelty. Today, the sport is governed by organisations such as USA Pickleball (formerly the USA Pickleball Association) and the International Pickleball Federation.
Why is it called pickleball?
To this day, two popular stories compete to explain how pickleball got its name:
Theory 1: Pickles the dog
The most well-known and most beloved story claims the sport was named after the Pritchard family dog, Pickles, who would chase stray balls during early games. According to this version, players would call out “Pickle’s ball!” whenever the dog ran off with it, and the phrase eventually inspired the sport’s name. While charming and widely repeated, historical records have challenged this account.
Theory 2: The pickle boat
The more historically supported explanation comes from Joan Pritchard, co-inventor Joel Pritchard’s wife. She stated that the name was inspired by the term “pickle boat” in rowing, which describes a crew of leftover rowers from various teams. The blend of different sports that formed pickleball reminded her of those mixed crews, making it a fitting metaphor for the game’s hybrid nature. This version is considered more accurate, particularly as the dog Pickles reportedly joined the family after the game had already been named.
Both stories have been widely shared in pickleball magazines, documentaries, and interviews with the sport’s founders. The debate has even been acknowledged by organisations like USA Pickleball and referenced in discussions by the USAPA Rules Committee. Whether named after a beloved pet or a rowing term, the quirky name has undeniably helped the sport gain attention and define its unique identity.
Beyond the name
Over time, most historians and early members of the pickleball community have accepted the rowing-inspired explanation as the more accurate one. Joan Pritchard maintained this version, which both Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell supported in later interviews. Organisations such as USA Pickleball and other national governing bodies also reference this version in their official histories.
The dog story remains a popular and enduring myth, mainly because of its relatability and charm. Many players enjoy the light-hearted image of a dog named Pickles chasing stray balls, and the story continues to circulate. Regardless of whether it’s just a funny story, it contributes to the sport’s charm.
Beyond its origins, the unique name has undoubtedly played a role in capturing attention. In a world of traditional-sounding sports, something called pickleball stands out. Its playful name reflects the sport’s informal and social tone, making it more approachable for newcomers and helping it appeal to a broader audience.
A thriving racket sport
The best way to begin is by finding a local venue that offers beginner-friendly sessions. At Bluecoat Sports, our social Today, pickleball has evolved into a global sport with a thriving professional scene and an established role in the sports and fitness industry. Organisations like Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) host elite-level pickleball tournaments featuring top-ranked players and offering substantial prize money.
With increased media coverage, sponsorships, and international participation, the game has grown from its backyard beginnings into one of the most dynamic and exciting sports on the rise.
Discover everything we offer by exploring our racket sport facilities, designed for players of all levels.
Try pickleball at Bluecoat Sports
Understanding the story behind the name pickleball adds another layer to a sport already known for its energy, inclusivity, and community spirit. With pickleball invented in 1965 as a fun and accessible game for all ages, it has since grown into a global phenomenon.
If you’re curious about the sport and want to give it a go, we offer regular social pickleball sessions, perfect for meeting other players, and our pickleball courts are available for hire. We welcome all abilities, making us the ideal place to discover why pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports.
For more information about our facilities and memberships, please contact our team.
