Pickleball Basics
Whether you are a new player, intermediate or advanced, there's always more to learn about the sport of Pickleball. Take a look at some of the basics about game play, rules, rating levels and more. Plus, videos and links to national Pickleball resources.
Skill Levels | Player Skill Levels | Members should use their best judgment to self-assign a skill level (rating). If you are unfamiliar with the guidelines set forth by the USA Pickleball Association, please use this handy document to help determine at what level you feel most comfortable playing. This document has been updated to reflect the 4 skill levels used by our Club. |
How To Play |
Basic Rules |
Warm Up |
Equipment | One of the great things about Pickleball is its low start-up costs. New players need a few pieces of basic equipment to get started. Paddles | Pickleball paddles are smaller than a tennis racquet but larger than a table-tennis paddle and are made from several materials including wood, graphite and aluminum. A lighter paddle is recommended for new players. See Club Gear Balls | Similar to wiffle balls, pickleballs are lightweight with holes. There are differences between indoor and outdoor balls. Fortunately, the Club provides balls for member play. Athletic Apparel & Footwear | There is typically no set dress code for pickleball. Athletic wear and tennis apparel are standard. Be sure to invest in a good pair of tennis or pickleball shoes for outdoor courts with white soles. |
Rulebook | The USA Pickleball Association publishes the official rulebook for the sport of Pickleball. It is updated annually as the game continues to mature in the US and around the world. Read & Download 2024 Rulebook |
Videos | Helpful YouTube Channels & Training Videos
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State & National Pickleball Organizations/Resources
Arizona Pickleball Players League (APPL)
Arizona Pickleball Players League organizes competitive leagues in five regions in Arizona. TVR Pickleball Club participates in the East Valley Region. For more information, contact Jan Harding (TVR Traveling Team Committee Chair).
USA Pickleball Association (USAPA)
USA Pickleball exists to promote the development and growth of Pickleball including publishing the official rule book.