Browsing: Pickleball News

If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably spent some time obsessing over your third-shot drop. It’s one of those shots that can make or break a game, right? But here’s the million-dollar question: Should you hit your drops flat, or add a little spin? The answer isn’t always straightforward, but I’m here to walk you through the options, share what’s worked for others, and help you figure out what’s best for your game. Why Your Third-Shot Drop Is So Important Let’s start with the basics. The third-shot drop is like a secret weapon in pickleball. It helps you transition from…

Whether you’ve just picked up the paddle or have been playing for a while, it’s easy to fall into some habits that mark you as an amateur on the court. But don’t worry – recognizing these mistakes is the first step to overcoming them and taking your game to the next level. Let’s go over some common tell-tale signs that might be holding you back, what they say about your current skill level, and how to fix them. 1. Crowding Your Partner During Serves One of the first signs that scream “beginner” is crowding your partner while they’re serving. Often,…

In a move that has pickleball enthusiasts buzzing, UTR Sports has officially acquired PicklePlay, a beloved platform designed to make finding courts and organizing pickleball games a breeze. This partnership is a huge win for local pickleball communities, promising exciting new features in 2025 that will make the sport more accessible and engaging for everyone, from casual players to serious competitors. UTR Sports’ Vision for the Future Mark Leschly, Chairman and CEO of UTR Sports, couldn’t be more excited. “By joining forces with PicklePlay, we are enhancing our ability to support local pickleball communities, from casual players to seasoned tournament…

Indoor pickleball clubs are popping up all over, with promises of year-round play and premium facilities. But is the cost of membership really worth it? Let’s dive into the details to see what’s involved, how much it can cost, and whether it’s the right investment for you. Average Costs and Variability The cost of an indoor pickleball membership can vary widely, ranging from around $50 per month to upwards of $150 per month, depending on the location, amenities, and level of exclusivity. For example, some members report paying around $600 annually for basic membership access, while others, especially in premium…

If you’re already hooked on pickleball, you know how important it is to stay comfortable and focused during a match. Whether you’re dinking, driving, or just battling it out in the kitchen, the right headwear can make all the difference. Let’s dive into why headwear matters in pickleball and which hats are best for keeping you cool and in the zone—plus, I’ll share some of the top picks from Imperial, our favorite pickleball headwear brand! Why Headwear Matters in Pickleball We all know pickleball is often played outdoors, and that means dealing with the sun, sweat, and distractions. But it’s…

With 2025 just around the corner, USA Pickleball has announced several rule changes aimed at enhancing fairness and sportsmanship in the game. These changes, effective from January 1, 2025, focus primarily on recreational players, bringing much-needed clarity and adjustments to some of the game’s most debated points. Here’s a rundown of the most important rule changes that will affect players next year. 1. No More Spectator Input on Line Calls Rule 6.C.4 has been updated to make it absolutely clear that players are not allowed to seek or accept input from spectators regarding line calls. The new wording states: “Spectators…

UTR Sports, creator of the world’s most accurate tennis and pickleball rating system and world-class tournament management software, is excited to announce that it will host five USA Pickleball Golden Ticket tournaments in 2025. UTR Sports will build on the overwhelming success it experienced in hosting two Golden Ticket events in 2024, where it welcomed more than 1,000 players and further established itself as a global leader in one of the world’s fastest growing sports. UTR Sports will play a central role in all 18 Golden Ticket events in 2025, with its lasting partnerships with industry leaders USA Pickleball and…

Some players reach a 4.0 rating in just six months, while others take two or three years. Why is it easier for some and harder for others? The journey to higher skill levels in pickleball is a mix of talent, dedication, practice, and sometimes luck. No matter how long it takes, reaching 4.0 is a big deal. It marks the shift from casual fun to serious competition. But if you’re aiming for 5.0, the challenge becomes even greater. Let’s explore what makes some players rise quickly and why everyone’s journey is unique. Getting to 4.0: The Early Days Reaching a…

In pickleball, the ATP (Around the Post) shot is one of the most exciting (and frustrating) shots you’ll face, especially as you reach more competitive levels. While this shot may seem unstoppable, there are solid ways to defend against it. Let’s explore at what level ATPs become common, how to anticipate and defend them, and strategies to prevent them from happening in the first place. At What Level Does the ATP Start to Happen? ATPs typically appear around the 3.5 – 4.0 skill level, when players start to master angles and dinks that pull you off the court. At this…

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with nearly 1 in 5 American adults playing in the past year. However, future growth isn’t guaranteed. UTR Sports, USA Pickleball, and the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) are partnering to ensure the sport’s continued success. These organizations aim to make pickleball even more accessible and enjoyable over the next decade. During the Denver Metro Open Golden Ticket event, leaders from UTR, APP, and USA Pickleball discussed their partnership and emphasized the importance of a reliable global rating for pickleball’s growth. Mark Leschly, UTR Sports CEO, on the UTR Pickleball Rating Advantage…