General Pickleball Questions

New to pickleball? This section covers the basics, including what pickleball is, how it's played, and where you can find courts. Perfect for beginners looking to get started!
What is pickleball?

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s played on a smaller court with a perforated plastic ball and paddles.

How many players are needed for a game?

Pickleball can be played as singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two-on-two).

What equipment do I need to play pickleball?

You need a pickleball paddle, a pickleball, proper court shoes, and a net. Dark Horse Dinkers provides free equipment for all players when you sign up for a clinic, league or special event.

Is pickleball a good sport for beginners?

Yes! Pickleball is easy to learn, low-impact, and great for all ages and skill levels. Darkhorse Dinkers specialty is introducing beginners to the game! Check out our different clinics and leagues to find the right fit for you.

Pickleball Strategy & Tips

Want to up your game? Get expert tips on serving, defending against smashes, and perfecting your dink shots. Great for players looking to refine their skills.
How can I improve my dink shots?

Practice soft, controlled shots that land in the opponent’s kitchen. Keep a loose grip on your paddle and use minimal wrist movement for better control.

What’s the best way to serve in pickleball?

A deep, low serve to the opponent’s backhand is often the most effective, as it makes returning more difficult.

How do I defend against aggressive smashes?

Keep your paddle up and stay in a ready position. Use soft blocks or resets to regain control of the rally.

How important is footwork in pickleball?

Footwork is crucial! Staying on your toes and moving efficiently can help you react quicker and maintain a strong defensive position.

Rules & Gameplay

Understanding the rules is key to enjoying the game. Learn how scoring works, what the “kitchen” is, and other essential rules to play like a pro.
How does scoring work in pickleball?

Pickleball uses a unique scoring system where only the serving team can score points. Games are typically played to 11, 15, or 21, and must be won by at least 2 points.

What is the ``kitchen`` in pickleball?

The “kitchen” is the non-volley zone, a 7-foot area on both sides of the net where players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air) to prevent overly aggressive play.

Can I serve overhand in pickleball?

No, serves must be hit underhand and below waist level, with the paddle making contact with the ball below the server’s waist.

What happens if the ball lands on the line?

If the ball lands on any boundary line, it is considered in, except when serving—the serve must clear the kitchen line.