SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pb-origin-bainbridge

Where and when did pickleball begin?

Bainbridge Island, Washington, in 1965.

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  1. Naples, Florida, in 1975
  2. Bainbridge Island, Washington, in 1965 ✔
  3. Seattle, Washington, in 1985

Why: Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum made up the game at the Pritchard home on Bainbridge Island, using ping-pong paddles and a plastic ball, so the whole family could play together.

Huh, didn't know that: The net started at badminton height, 60 inches, and was soon lowered to 36 inches.

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Why did the bored kids love the new game? It was a real pickle-me-up.
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References

Answer: Bainbridge Island, Washington, in 1965. Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum made up the game at the Pritchard home on Bainbridge Island, using ping-pong paddles and a plastic ball, so the whole family could play together.

  1. USA Pickleball: How Pickleball Got Its Name usapickleball.org/pickleball-stories/how-pickleball-got-its-name
    In the summer of 1965, pickleball was founded by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum on Bainbridge Island, Washington.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. USA Pickleball: About and History usapickleball.org/about
    soon the net was lowered to 36 inches
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessAccording to USA Pickleball, what inspired the name pickleball?Sports & FitnessDuring a rally, your shot touches the top of the net and goes over. What happens?Sports & FitnessThe ball hits your paddle hand, below the wrist, while you are holding the paddle. Is it a fault?

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