CALIFORNIA, Md. — Pickleball has become a go-to way for Maryland residents to get moving and meet people. Getting started is simple: You need a paddle, a ball, comfortable athletic clothes and a court.
From Southern Maryland and Anne Arundel County to Baltimore and the Washington suburbs, public parks, recreation centers and private clubs all offer places to play. Hours, fees and reservation rules vary, so check with the facility before you go.
What You Need
- Paddle and ball: That’s all the gear you need. Balls are made for indoor or outdoor play, so get the right type for your court. Some recreation centers and beginner programs lend equipment, which lets you try the sport before buying.
- Court shoes: Pickleball involves quick stops and side-to-side movement. Court shoes built for lateral stability are a better choice than running shoes.
- The extras: Bring water, sunscreen and a hat for outdoor play, plus a spare ball. Maryland’s summer heat and humidity make hydration especially important.
A basic paddle is fine for a beginner. Play a few times before upgrading so you learn what weight, grip size and feel you like.
Basic Rules
According to USA Pickleball:
- Format: Games can be singles or doubles.
- Serving: Serves are underhand and go diagonally, or crosscourt, and must land past the kitchen line.
- Two-bounce rule: The serve must bounce, and the return must bounce. After that, players can volley (hit the ball out of the air) or let it bounce.
- The kitchen: The non-volley zone next to the net is known as the kitchen. You can’t volley while standing in it, but you can step in after the ball bounces.
- Scoring: Only the serving team scores. Games usually go to 11, and you must win by 2.
Recreational groups sometimes use different formats, so agree on scoring before you start. A beginner clinic or a game with experienced players is the easiest way to learn the finer points.
Where To Play In Maryland
Start with your county or city parks and recreation department, then check community centers and private clubs.
St. Mary’s County: Six dedicated pickleball courts are now open at Chancellor’s Run Regional Park in Great Mills. Because the courts are dedicated to pickleball, several games can run at once without shared lines. Bring your own paddles and balls, and follow the posted rules…