Pickleball is a game that can be made fun for all ages, physical fitness levels, and skill sets. Here are some ways to make pickleball enjoyable for everyone:
1. Modify the Rules for Beginners
- Simplify Scoring: Instead of the traditional scoring system, use a simple rally scoring method where each rally results in a point, regardless of who serves. This helps beginners stay engaged without the complexities of standard scoring.
- Allow Double Bounces: Permit the ball to bounce twice on each side, giving beginners extra time to return the ball.
2. Use Adaptive Equipment
- Lighter Paddles: For younger players or beginners, use lighter paddles that are easier to handle.
- Slower Balls: Use foam or lightweight balls that are easier to hit and slow down the game, making it less intimidating for beginners.
3. Set Up Different Skill-Based Games
- Target Practice: Set up cones or targets on the court for players to aim at, making it a fun skills challenge rather than a competitive match.
- Team Play: Organize games that involve rotating players, creating small teams, or even playing “king of the court” style games where winning teams stay on and challengers rotate in.
4. Focus on Fun Over Competition
- Emphasize rallies and teamwork rather than who wins or loses. A goal like “How many hits can we get in a row?” can help everyone focus on participation and cooperation.
- Encourage Playful Challenges: Add in challenges like using the non-dominant hand or having a no-talking rule to make it lighthearted and funny.
5. Adapt the Court Size
- Smaller Court: Set up smaller court boundaries, particularly for younger players or beginners, to make the area easier to cover and less physically demanding.
- Lower Net Height: For younger children or new players, lowering the net slightly can make the game more accessible and help them succeed more easily.
6. Make It a Social Event
- Music and Snacks: Play some background music to set a light and festive mood. Organize snacks and breaks where players can socialize. The social life aspect of pickleball is a big part of why people enjoy it!
- Themed Matches: Have themed days (e.g., wear a specific color, bring a funny hat) to make the games more entertaining and make people feel like it is less competitive.
7. Mix Skill Levels
- Pair experienced players with less experienced ones, so new players can learn while still having fun. Encourage experienced players to coach and give positive reinforcement.
- Rotate partners frequently to keep things lively and give everyone a chance to play with different skill levels.
8. Shorter Matches
- Keep games shorter to accommodate attention spans and ensure everyone gets multiple turns. This is especially helpful for younger players who may tire easily.
By keeping the focus on fun, socialization, and inclusivity, pickleball can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for people of all ages and abilities.
If your brand and/or your client’s brand is interested in discussing the possibilities of pickleball as a driver of the perfect demographic contact us here so we can set up a free 30 minute consulting session and delve into the possibilities that pickleball offers.
Pickleball Marketing Group, is the top sports, brand and experiential event marketing company in pickleball. With over 40 years of experience leveraging brands for events such as the Superbowl, World Series, NCAA March Madness, US open in tennis, the Olympics and many others, Pickleball Marketing Group isn’t just about pickleball. Instead, the Company’s expertise is how to leverage the sport and its 48 million users to bring your brand activation to life.
