Ever Wonder how Pickleball began...?

Pickleball was invented in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by three friends: Joel Pritchard (a congressman), Bill Bell (a successful businessman), and Barney McCallum. They were looking for a way to entertain their families during a lazy afternoon.

​

Here’s how it unfolded:

1. The Origins of the Game:
   The group wanted to play badminton but couldn’t find a full set of equipment. They improvised by using a wiffle ball, some plywood paddles, and a lowered badminton net. Over time, they created rules tailored to the unique dynamics of this setup.
    

2. The Name “Pickleball”:
   The origins of the name "pickleball" are debated. One story suggests it was named after the Pritchard family’s dog, Pickles, who would chase after stray balls. Another theory claims Joan Pritchard, Joel’s wife, coined the name because it reminded her of a "pickle boat," a term in rowing for a boat made up of leftover crew members.
    

3. Early Development:
   As the game gained popularity among family and friends, the inventors formalized the rules in 1967 to make it a more structured and competitive sport. The first permanent pickleball court was built in 1967 in the backyard of Barney McCallum’s neighbor.
    

4. Growth of the Sport:
   By the 1970s, pickleball had started to spread across the U.S., particularly in community centers and retirement communities due to its accessibility and low physical demands. In the 1980s, the U.S. Amateur Pickleball Association (USAPA) was formed to promote the sport.

​

Today, pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, appealing to players of all ages and skill levels thanks to its simple rules and engaging, social nature.