If you're an avid pickleball player, you know how great this game is. But what about your friends or family members who—let’s be honest—haven’t exactly been bitten by the pickleball bug yet? Maybe they’re not super active, or they think it’s not the sport for them.
That’s where you come in.
Pickleball is one of the most accessible sports out there, and it’s perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels. If you’re eager to share your love for the game, this guide will help you gently nudge your friends and family from the couch to the court—in a way that’s fun, welcoming, and completely non-intimidating.
1. Highlight Why Pickleball Is Perfect for Everyone
Start by sharing what makes pickleball such a great sport. It’s easy to learn, low-impact, and incredibly social. Unlike some sports, you don’t need to be super fit or have years of experience to enjoy it. Plus, it’s ideal for players of all ages—whether your friend or family member is 25 or 65, they can pick up a paddle and have fun right away.
Mention the community aspect, too. Pickleball isn’t just about the game; it’s about connection. Whether it’s a post-game happy hour or meeting new people on the court, it’s a sport that brings people together.
🏓 Pro Tip: Share your personal story about how you got into pickleball and why you love it. Passion is contagious, and your enthusiasm can spark their curiosity.
2. Start Small: Ease Them In
Jumping straight into a full game might feel overwhelming for someone new to the sport, especially if they’re not super active. Start small by introducing them to the basics. Show them how to hold the paddle, explain the most important rules, and let them try a few easy shots.
Make it a no-pressure situation. Avoid diving into complex strategies or competitive gameplay right away. Instead, focus on having fun and celebrating small wins—like successfully returning a ball or making their first dink.
🏓 Pro Tip: Suggest a casual one-on-one session or invite them to watch a game first. Sometimes seeing the game in action helps break the ice.
3. Make It a Group Thing
Invite a mix of players, including other beginners, to create a welcoming environment. Playing in a group takes the pressure off and makes the experience feel more like a social hangout than a serious lesson.
If your group includes experienced players, ask them to take a supportive approach. Encourage cheering and patience with newcomers. The goal is to create a relaxed, enjoyable vibe that keeps your friends coming back.
Or gift them lessons at a local pickleball club. That way, they can learn at their own pace without worrying what others think.
🏓 Pro Tip: After the game, invite everyone to grab a drink or a bite to eat nearby. It’s a great way to socialize off the court and keep the fun going.
4. Gear Up Without Overwhelming Them
One of the best things about pickleball is that it doesn’t require a lot of gear. Help your friends get started with the basics: A paddle, a few pickleballs, and some comfortable court shoes. Offer to lend them your spare equipment for their first few games so they don’t feel the need to invest right away.
And don’t forget the apparel! Recommend breathable, comfortable clothing that’s perfect for the court. For something fun and pickleball-themed, point them to a shirt from our site. A great fitting t-shirt can make them feel more comfortable and like part of the team from day one.
🏓 Pro Tip: Keep it simple. Overloading them with too much information about gear can feel intimidating. Just focus on the essentials.
5. Focus on Fun, Not Perfection
For a beginner, pickleball might feel a bit awkward at first. They might miss shots, hit the ball too hard, or forget a rule or two. That’s okay! Keep the focus on having fun rather than getting everything perfect.
Be their biggest cheerleader. Celebrate their successes—no matter how small—and laugh off the misses. Avoid giving too much technical advice during the game. Save your tips for afterwards and keep them positive.
🏓 Pro Tip: Play mini games like “first to five points” or try dinking rallies instead of full matches. These are less intense and great for building confidence.
6. Help Them Feel Comfortable on the Court
One of the biggest barriers for beginners is feeling out of place. Reassure them that everyone was a beginner once and that no one’s judging. Pickleball is a welcoming community, and many players are excited to see new faces on the court.
If your friend seems nervous, suggest playing during less busy times, which can make it easier for newcomers to practice without other players watching and waiting to play.
🏓 Pro Tip: Share some unwritten pickleball etiquette rules, like when to call “mine” or “yours” or how to paddle tap after a game. These small tips can boost their confidence.
7. Make It a Regular Thing
The key to turning your couch-loving friend into a pickleball enthusiast is consistency. Once they’ve tried it, invite them back for another game. The more they play, the more comfortable they’ll feel—and the more likely they are to fall in love with the sport.
You can even set up a weekly pickleball game. Having pickleball on the calendar gives everyone something to look forward to and helps new players feel like part of the community.
🏓 Pro Tip: Celebrate milestones, like their first full game or their first win. These small achievements can build confidence and motivation.
Introducing your friends and family to pickleball is one of the best gifts you can give. It’s a sport that’s fun, social, and perfect for people of all ages. By starting small, focusing on fun, and creating a welcoming environment, you can help them go from the couch to the court in no time.
Remember, it’s not about turning them into pros overnight. It’s about sharing the joy of the game and making them feel like part of the pickleball family. So, grab your paddle, invite your crew, and help them discover why pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country. Who knows? They might just end up loving it as much as you do!
We'll see you on the court!
How have your gotten your friends and family to join you on the pickleball court? Share your tips below!