Pickleball Love

Pickleball is a fun sport meant to be shared by all. Whether it is an activity for you and your spouse, kids, siblings or friends, this is a game to be played together. But we all know how challenging it can be to play a game with someone we love. That’s why we hear so many married couples say things like, “We can’t play together” or “It would end out marriage”.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. My boyfriend and I have been on the same team for 2 ½ years now and we haven’t broken up over it yet. Although, it wasn’t easy. There was a bit of a learning curve. Thus, we have devised a few rules that will help you have a fun time playing with someone you love.

1. ALWAYS tap paddles. No matter what happened during the point. Every time the ball is dead and the play is over, walk over to your partner and tap paddles (gently). This brings you together after each point and provides a little unspoken encouragement.

2. Save all coaching for after the game. Especially if one player is struggling, having someone tell them mid-game all the things they are doing wrong is not going to help. Instead, you could tell them what you are planning to do. For example, if you notice one of the opponents has a weaker backhand, inform your partner that you are going to try to hit it there. They may then follow suit.

3. Avoid “the look”. That disappointed, its all their fault, I can’t believe they hit that, look. This is probably one of the most discouraging and infuriating things when playing with someone.

4. Focus on your own game. I guarantee you haven’t made every shot perfectly. There is nothing you can do to change how your partner is playing. So, try to make sure every one of your shots counts.

5. Remember that you are out here for fun. I know everyone wants to win, but remember what exactly you are winning. Unless you are playing in an open division, there is no money on the line. More than likely you will either receive a medal, water bottle, or maybe even a pickle. And none of those things is worth damaging your relationship. But if you go into it with a positive attitude, trying to play your best and enjoy the time together, there shouldn’t be a problem.

If you still don’t think tournament play is right for you and your loved one, that’s okay. But I can personally tell you that playing pickleball with someone you love is a great bonding experience. You are working together, celebrating each other, and using patience during struggles. Start with some rec play and enjoy this time together.