Pickleball

Leagues, Games & Events

Play. Compete. Connect.

Pickleball at East Hartford Racquet Club is more than just court time—it’s a social and competitive experience for players of all levels. We host seasonal leagues that bring together local enthusiasts for structured, skill-based play. Friendly round-robin tournaments and casual mixers are offered throughout the year, giving players a chance to meet new partners, sharpen their game, and have fun in a welcoming environment. Whether you’re just learning how to serve or are already placing shots with surgical precision, there’s a spot for you in our growing pickleball community.

What Is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a fast-paced paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton. It’s typically played on a court about a quarter the size of a tennis court, which means less running and more action-packed rallies. The game is played either in singles or doubles, and it’s known for being easy to learn but challenging to master. Lightweight paddles and a perforated plastic ball help make the game accessible to all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re playing for fitness, fun, or fierce competition, pickleball offers a low-impact, high-reward workout.

A Brief History of the Sport

Pickleball was invented in the summer of 1965 by Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell, who were looking to entertain their families on Bainbridge Island in Washington State. Using improvised equipment and a badminton court, they created a game that quickly caught on. By the 1980s, the sport had spread across the U.S., and in 2005 the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) was formed to formalize rules and promote organized play. In 2008, the first official tournament rulebook was released. The sport reached new heights in 2021 with the Margaritaville USA Pickleball National Championships, which drew more than 23,000 participants—a testament to pickleball’s booming popularity.

Understanding the Court & Equipment

To get the most out of your pickleball experience, it’s important to understand the basics of the court and the equipment used. While the game is easy to pick up, knowing the dimensions, net height, and the differences between indoor and outdoor balls can enhance your play and help you choose the right gear. Whether you’re stepping onto the court for the first time or fine-tuning your competitive edge, these fundamentals lay the groundwork for a better game.

Court Dimensions

A pickleball court is 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, identical in size to a doubles badminton court. It includes a 7-foot non-volley zone—commonly called “the kitchen”—on each side of the net, which adds an important layer of strategy. The net itself is slightly lower than a tennis net, standing 36 inches at the posts and 34 inches at the center. Because of its compact size, four pickleball courts can be set up on a single tennis court, making it ideal for indoor play at our facility.

Pickleball Balls

Pickleballs come in indoor and outdoor varieties. Indoor balls are lighter, have 26 holes, and are made of softer plastic to suit smooth gym floors. Outdoor balls are heavier, have 40 holes, and are built to withstand wind and rougher court surfaces. The choice of ball can significantly impact gameplay. We typically use trusted brands like Penn Indoor and Penn Outdoor Pickleballs to ensure consistency and quality during play.

How the Player Rating System Works

To help players find suitable opponents and enter the right league or tournament bracket, pickleball uses a rating system ranging from 1.0 to 5.5+. Beginners usually fall within the 1.0 to 2.0 range as they learn basic rules, strokes, and court positioning. Players rated 3.0 to 4.0 demonstrate more consistent shots, improved strategy, and better teamwork in doubles. Those rated 5.0 and above are experienced, highly skilled competitors often seen in sanctioned tournaments. This system helps foster fair play and steady improvement no matter where you start.

Get Started Today

Whether you're brand new to the sport or looking to improve your rating, East Hartford Racquet Club offers the space, support, and community to help you grow your game.