What do you get when you take a game that looks a lot like tennis, is played on a badminton-sized court, and uses table tennis-like paddles? You get pickleball – a high-energy racquet sport that’s sweeping across Sydney faster than you can say ‘dink shot’. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it has nothing to do with having a Federer-style forehand. Or pickles, for that matter.
Pickleball has been growing in popularity over the past few years. There’s even a National Pickleball League (NPL) running across New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. All you need is a paddle (entry-level ones go for about $40), a pickleball, and some comfy sports shoes. Most venues will have nets set up and equipment ready to hire – so it’s as easy as booking in and showing up.
You can play indoors or outdoors, singles or doubles, rain or shine. The rules are a blend of things you might recognise. For instance, the serve is underarm like in badminton (not tennis) and you serve diagonally to your opponent. Scoring is like table tennis where the aim is to be the first to get to 11 points with a minimum margin of two points. And, you can't volley in the ‘kitchen’. Say what now? Not your household kitchen; the area closest to the net is called the ‘kitchen’ and it’s a non-volley zone i.e., you can’t smash a shot out of the air – the ball must bounce first.
Keen to give pickleball a go? Check out these Sydney spots:
- The Jar Pickleball Club, Pyrmont: Great for work parties, lunchtime games or proper training sessions. Two courts, a bar, and good vibes.
- Perry Park Recreation Centre, Alexandria: Four indoor courts, pickleball available Mondays (excluding public and school hols) from 11am–1pm.
- Margaret Whitlam Recreation Centre, Bondi Junction: Two indoor courts and a one-time fee – just rock up and play.
So whether you’re sporty or just want to try something new with mates, pickleball is our pick. Just don’t get ‘pickled’ – that’s when you lose a game without scoring a single point.
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