Pickleball Etiquette 101: Unwritten Rules Every Player Should Know

Pickleball isn’t just about dinks, drives, and drop shots. It’s also about community, respect, and good vibes on the court.

Whether you’re brand new or already addicted, understanding the unspoken etiquette of the game will make you a better partner, opponent, and member of the pickleball crew.

Here are the top etiquette tips every player should know — especially if you’re playing at Bloomington Pickleball Warehouse (BPW).

👋 1. Greet Your Opponents Before the Game

A simple “Hey, good to see you” or paddle tap goes a long way. It sets a friendly tone and reminds everyone: we’re here to compete, but also to connect.

🧹 2. Call Balls Clearly — and Fairly

If a ball lands close to the line and you're unsure, give the benefit of the doubt to your opponent. Make your calls loud and clear — and be honest. Integrity matters more than the point.

🏃 3. Don’t Chase Balls Through Other Courts

If your ball rolls into another game, wait until their point ends before retrieving it. Shouting “Ball!” is okay if it’s a safety issue — but don’t interrupt play unless necessary.

🤝 4. Rotate Fairly During Open Play

At BPW, Open Play is about sharing the court and mixing with different players. Don’t hog games with the same partner or group. Rotate in and out so everyone gets a chance.

🙌 5. Keep Celebrations Chill

Winning a point feels great — but excessive fist pumps or loud cheers can come off as disrespectful. Celebrate with class, and always acknowledge great shots from your opponents.

🧢 6. Offer Encouragement, Not Criticism

Unless someone asks for advice, keep coaching to yourself. Focus on positive vibes: “Nice try,” “Great hustle,” or “You’ll get the next one” go a long way.

🧽 7. Clean Up After Yourself

Don’t leave empty water bottles, used towels, or stray balls behind. Help keep BPW clean and welcoming for everyone.

🧠 8. Admit When You Make a Mistake

If you touch the net, step into the kitchen on a volley, or commit another fault, own up to it. Honesty builds trust and respect on the court.

🔄 9. Respect the Paddle Stack System

At BPW, we use a paddle stacking system to manage court rotations. Place your paddle in the stack when waiting to play, and join the next available game in order. It keeps things fair and organized.

🧘 10. Stay Calm and Composed

Pickleball can get competitive, but it's important to stay composed. Avoid yelling, arguing, or showing frustration. Keep the atmosphere positive for everyone.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Pickleball is more than just a game — it’s a community. By following these etiquette tips, you’ll contribute to a fun, respectful, and inclusive environment at BPW.

Ready to put these tips into practice? Join us for Open Play, clinics, or leagues. Let’s keep the good vibes rolling!