Capital Area Pickleball Association
Serving Dane County Wisconsin

Over the past few months, I have been either asked or told that on a serve, the ball must be released from the hand no higher than the server’s waist. Each time I have heard this, I have rushed to the USA Pickleball 2024 Official Rulebook and Google to see if there has been a rule change that I didn’t know about, and I can never find the rule to which the person is referring.

There is a rule in Section 4.A.8.a. (relating to the drop serve), which states that, “The server must release the ball from one hand only or drop it off the paddle face from any natural (un-aided) height." In plain English, this just means that you can drop the ball from as high as you can reach. Since most of us can reach higher than our waist, this could not be the rule to which people have been referring.

And, of course, the rule in Section 4.A.7.c. (relating to the volley serve) requires that, “Contact with the ball must not be made above the waist,” but it says nothing about the height at which the ball can be dropped before the server makes contact with it below the waist. So, this also could not be the rule to which people have been referring.

In fact, there is no rule about dropping the ball at or below the waist on either the drop serve or the volley serve in the Official Rulebook. See the serve rules at Section 4.A. of the Official Rulebook.

The last time this subject came up, I decided I would do some additional research to find out the origin of this misunderstanding that seems to be going around the pickleball courts.

It turns out that there was a pickleball tournament in January 2024, called the PPA Masters Tournament, and for that tournament, a rule change regarding the volley serve was implemented for the pros, which required that the ball had to be dropped from waist-level or below. Depending on how things went at the tournament, it was possible that this rule change was going to become permanent. Here is a video that explains the proposed rule change regarding the height of the drop for the volley serve, as it was implemented at the PPA Masters Tournament.

I now see on the USA Pickleball website that this is a proposed rule change for the volley serve (not the drop serve) for 2025. Here is a link to the proposed rule change language from USA Pickleball that would require that users of the volley serve be required to drop the ball from no higher than waist-high level and the rationale behind the rule change.

So, in short, there is currently no rule about having to drop the ball from waist-high level or below on any kind of serve. It may or may not become a rule in the future for the volley serve. Stay tuned!

If you are an avid pickleball player, you may have wondered how long your trusty paddle will last before it may be time to replace it. Unfortunately, the answer isn't as straightforward as you might hope. Although the lifespan of the average pickleball paddle is 1-3 years, the specific lifespan of a particular paddle will depend on many variables, including the materials it is made of, the frequency and intensity of play, and how well it is maintained and cared for. Let's dive into these factors and then explore some telltale signs that it may be time for a new paddle.

Factors Affecting Paddle Lifespan

• Paddle Materials. Paddles made from higher-quality materials like graphite and composite tend to last longer than wooden paddles. These materials are more durable and less subject to warping from heat and humidity, which translates to a longer lifespan.

     Having said that, the materials in the higher-end paddles, including the core           material – the most common one being “polymer” – and the overlaying thin           layers of carbon fiber, graphite, or other composite material, will also start to         lose performance after several thousand hits against a pickleball.

• Frequency and Intensity of Play. Players who play every day and hit the ball super hard are likely to wear out their paddles much faster than someone who hardly plays and only hits the ball softly. So, if you're an occasional player, your paddle may last several years. However, competitive players who engage in high-intensity games may find their paddles wear out significantly faster, sometimes within a year.                                                                                                                       
• Maintenance and Care. Properly caring for your paddle can extend its lifespan. Some tips include:

     o   Do not store your paddle in extreme temperatures (hot or cold). Be sure to         store your paddle in your home rather than your car/trunk, since your car can       experience extreme hot and cold temperatures.
     o   Prevent your paddle from getting wet. Try to avoid playing in the rain (both         to keep your paddle from getting wet and to avoid slipping and falling).
     o   Keep your paddle in a case or cover to avoid surface damage.

Signs It May be Time to Replace Your Pickleball Paddle

• Failing edge guard. If the edge guard of your paddle is starting to peel off or come undone, it could be a precursor to more serious issues like delamination. Delamination occurs when the layers of material of the paddle face separate from each other or from the core. If your pickleball paddle is delaminated, you may notice soft spots, bubbling, peeling, or unevenness on the paddle’s surface.
• Chips, cracks, or dents. Visible chips, cracks, or dents in the paddle surface can significantly impact its performance and may indicate it's time for a new one.
• Loss of texture. As you play, the texture on the face of your paddle will naturally wear down, resulting in a significantly smoother surface. This will make it much harder to grip and add spin to the ball, signaling that it is probably time for a new paddle.
• Dead spots. If you notice areas on the paddle face where the ball doesn't bounce off as well, this could be a sign of irreversible wear and tear.
• Reduced power and control. If you're struggling to generate power or maintain control during shots, it may be a sign that your paddle's performance has deteriorated.

Warranties

Many high-quality paddle brands have warranties that guarantee that the company will replace the paddle if it wears out or shows defects within a certain time after purchase. Most warranties last about 6 months to one year, depending on the paddle. Be sure to register your paddle as soon as you purchase it to take advantage of the warranty, if necessary.

Conclusion

The lifespan of a pickleball paddle depends on various factors, including materials, playing frequency and intensity, and maintenance and care. Keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, and don't hesitate to replace your paddle when the time comes. Ultimately, playing with a paddle in good condition is key to enjoying the game and performing at your best. Happy pickling!

Gone are the days when static stretching was considered the best way to warm up before physical activities. Today, dynamic stretching has taken center stage as an effective method for not only increasing flexibility but also enhancing athletic performance. So, what exactly is dynamic stretching, and how does it work? Let’s dive in!

What is Dynamic Stretching?

Unlike static stretching, which involves holding a stretch for a specific period of time, dynamic stretching focuses on movement-based stretches. It uses a combination of controlled movements, bodyweight exercises, and momentum to enhance flexibility and improve your range of motion.

Advantages of Dynamic Stretching

The benefits of dynamic stretching include:

• Improved Range of Motion: By engaging your muscles through movement, dynamic stretching can effectively increase your range of motion and overall flexibility.
• Better Blood Flow: The constant motion associated with dynamic stretching promotes increased blood flow to the muscles, which helps prepare them for the activity ahead (in our case, pickleball!)
• Enhanced Performance: With improved flexibility and blood flow, dynamic stretching has been shown to enhance agility, speed, and athletic performance.
• Reduced Risk of Injury: Properly warmed-up muscles are less prone to strains and tears, which means dynamic stretching can reduce the risk of injury during workouts or sports, including pickleball.

How to Perform Dynamic Stretches

To get the most out of dynamic stretching, it is essential to focus on functional movements that mimic those in your chosen activity, in our case pickleball. Some popular dynamic stretches include leg swings, arm circles, and high knees. Here are some basic steps to follow:

1. Start slowly: Begin with a gentle movement and gradually increase your range and speed as you progress.

2. Be consistent: Aim to perform dynamic stretching routines regularly, especially before workouts, to reap the benefits.

3. Focus on form: Maintain proper form and technique while performing the movements to avoid injury.

4. Pay attention to your body: Listen to your body and stop if you feel any discomfort or pain during the stretches.

A great YouTube video that discusses dynamic stretching exercises for pickleball can be found here.

Is Dynamic Stretching Suitable for All Age Groups?

Dynamic stretching can benefit people of all ages, but it is important to adjust the intensity and complexity of the stretches according to one's age and fitness level. Older adults may benefit from a slower pace and less complex movements to prevent overstressing their joints and muscles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dynamic stretching is a valuable addition to any workout routine, including pickleball, and it provides numerous advantages over traditional static stretching. By incorporating dynamic stretches into your warm-ups, you can unlock greater flexibility and performance, as well as reduce the risk of injury. Remember to tailor the stretches to your age and fitness level and consult with a professional if you are unsure about where to start.

Happy stretching, and happy pickling!

According to a May 23, 2024, blog post on the website, The Kitchen, when considering American cities with a population over 100,000, Madison has the second most outdoor, dedicated pickleball courts in the country!

The top 10 U.S. cities with the most pickleball courts per 10,000 people are as follows:

1. Louisville, KY (3.8)

2. Madison, WI (2.3)

3. Honolulu, HI (1.9)

4. Saint Petersburg, FL (1.8)

5. Port Saint Lucie, FL (1.6)

6. Bakersfield, CA (1.6)

7. Boise, ID (1.5)

8. Albuquerque, NM (1.4)

9. Virginia Beach, VA (1.2)

10. Saint Louis, MO (1.2)

Of course, for those of us who live in Madison and the greater Dane County Area, we know that several of the smaller communities surrounding Madison actually have many more dedicated pickleball courts than Madison proper. In addition, there are many tennis courts in both Madison and the surrounding communities that are also lined for pickleball, providing everyone with additional court space over-and-above that provided solely by the dedicated pickleball courts.

Here is a summary of the prevalence of outdoor pickleball courts in Dane County. Numbers provided below include: (1) courts, (2) community population, and (3) courts per 10,000 people:

• Black Earth, 1 total, 1,452, 6.89
• Cottage Grove, 12 dedicated, 8,857, 13.55
• Cross Plains, 4 dedicated, 4,010, 9.98
• Cross Plains, 5 total, 4,010, 12.47
• Deerfield, 1 dedicated, 2,454, 4.07
• DeForest, 4 dedicated, 10,893, 3.67
• DeForest, 5 total, 10,893, 4.59
• Fitchburg, 8 dedicated, 30,834, 2.59
• Fitchburg, 10 total, 30,834, 3.24
• Madison: 6 dedicated, 272,903, 2.20
• Madison: 58 total, 272,903, 21.25
• McFarland, 8 dedicated, 9,378, 8.53
• Middleton, 8 dedicated, 22,328, 3.58
• Monona, 4 total, 8,585, 4.66
• Mount Horeb, 6 dedicated, 7,682, 7.81
• Oregon, 6 dedicated, 11,610, 5.17
• Sauk Prairie (combination of Sauk City and Prairie du Sac), 8 dedicated, 7,881, 10.15
• Stoughton: 6 dedicated, 12,846, 4.67
• Stoughton: 8 total, 12,846, 6.23
• Sun Prairie, 12 dedicated, 36,653, 3.27
• Sun Prairie, 14 total, 36,653, 3.82
• Verona, 4 dedicated, 14,521, 2.75
• Verona, 6 total, 14,521, 4.13
• Waunakee, 7 dedicated, 14,998, 4.67
• Waunakee, 14 total, 14,998, 9.33
• Westport, 1 total, 4,183, 2.39
• Windsor, 3 dedicated, 8,754, 3.43

Much of the information which was used in putting together this blog post was pulled from the CAPA website’s “Outdoor Courts” section. Be sure to check it out for more detailed information about the specific names and locations of courts in your community.

USA Pickleball is the National Governing Body for the sport of pickleball in the U.S. If you play in tournaments, then you appreciate the importance of having a paddle that is “USA Pickleball-approved.” For a paddle to be approved by USA Pickleball, it has to meet certain specifications related to material, surface roughness, size, and weight. USA Pickleball approval of equipment is intended to ensure and preserve integrity and fairness for all players. The USA Pickleball seal of approval is so important that you will not be allowed to play in most tournaments if you do not have a paddle that is included on the USA Pickleball-approved equipment list.

This year, there has been a significant development that may impact some of you. Specifically, USA Pickleball has de-certified some new and very popular Joola paddles. These paddles include:

•  Anna Bright Scorpeus 3 14mm
• Ben Johns Hyperion 3 16mm
• Ben Johns Hyperion 3 14mm
• Ben Johns Perseus 3 14mm
• Ben Johns Perseus 3 16mm
• Collin Johns Scorpeus 3 16mm
• Hyperion Alpha 2024 16mm
• Hyperion Alpha 2024 14mm
• Magnus Alpha 2024 16mm
• Magnus Alpha 2024 14mm
• Perseus Alpha 2024 16mm
• Perseus Alpha 2024 14mm
• Scorpeus Alpha 2024 16mm
• Scorpeus Alpha 2024 14mm
• Simone Jardim Hyperion 3 16mm
• Tyson McGuffin Magnus 3 14mm
• Tyson McGuffin Magnus 3 16mm

To read the official USA Pickleball statement about why it de-certified these paddles, as well as some FAQs on this topic, go to https://usapickleball.org/news/usa-pickleball-statement-on-decertified-joola-paddles-and-equipment-testing-standards/.

According to Joola’s website, if you purchased one of these paddles, you can return it by July 15, 2024, for a full refund. Instructions for doing so can be found at https://joolausa.com/frequently-asked-questions/ under “Gen3 Paddle Returns.”

If you are curious about whether your paddle is USA Pickleball-approved (whether it is a Joola or a non-Joola paddle), you can find out by going to www.equipment.usapickleball.org.

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States, and it is also starting to pick up steam in other countries as well. So, you might be curious as to whether you will see pickleball being played at this summer’s Olympics in Paris? The answer is unfortunately not, but take heart, because it may not be long until pickleball will be played in the Olympics!

For a sport to be in the Olympics, it must be governed by an International Federation that must implement the World Anti-Doping Code. For a sport to be added to the male sports slate, it also has to be played widely in at least 75 countries and on at least 4 continents; for a sport to be added to the female sport slate, it must be widely played in at least 40 countries and on at least 3 continents.

Because it did not meet these conditions timely, pickleball will not be part of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and was not included on the additional sports proposal for the 2028 Olympic Games, which will be held in Los Angeles.

So, the next possible opportunity for pickleball to be included in the Olympics will not occur until 2032, when the Olympics will be held in Brisbane, Australia. But it’s not actually that far-fetched to believe that pickleball could be part of that year’s Olympic Games. Pickleball already has several international federations, including the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). The WPF has 60 member countries on 6 continents. The GPF has about 40 member countries on 5 continents, and the GPF’s mission is to earn Olympic recognition and the eventual inclusion of the sport in the Paralympic and Olympic Games.

I don’t know about you, but I am already looking forward to 2032!

Choosing a paddle can be a daunting task and may seem downright overwhelming with all the different options available on the market right now. Here are a few factors to consider to better ensure you make the right paddle purchase for you:

• Paddle playability and size of the “sweet spot”

o “Playability” refers to how easy a paddle is to immediately pick up and play with for players of most levels and styles. The “sweet spot” refers to the area on the paddle where you can hit the ball most effectively and solidly. Paddles differ with respect to how playable they are and how large their sweet spot is.

• Your playing style

o One key dimension here to take note of is whether you are more of a “power” player (love to hit the ball hard) or whether you are more of a “control” player (love to win a point with a well-placed shot). Control players generally prefer a lighter paddle with a carbon fiber or graphite face, a thick core, and a larger sweet spot. Power players tend to prefer a heavier paddle with a longer handle and a composite surface to add more power and leverage to their shots.

o Another key dimension to take note of is whether you like to add spin to your shots. If so, you will want a paddle with a heavily textured surface.

• Shape/size of paddle

o Generally speaking, paddles come in two varieties – larger faces and shorter handles, or slightly smaller faces and longer handles. If you are someone who is shorter and/or who likes to hit two-handed backhands, you might prefer a longer handle and a smaller paddle face, and vice versa. However, keep in mind that long, narrow paddles tend to have smaller sweet spots and tend to be head-heavy.

• Grip size

o Many paddle brands offer different grip sizes for people with different hand sizes. If you have a small hand, be sure to look for a paddle that offers a smaller grip size.

• Paddle weight and balance

o Paddles can weigh anywhere from about 6 to 9.5 ounces, and the weight may be evenly distributed throughout the paddle, or it may be balanced toward the head of the paddle. The heavier the paddle and the more it is balanced toward the head, the more powerful the paddle is likely to be, but the less control you are likely to have over your shots. Heavier paddles can also tire out your arm more easily, but they can also require less strength to hit a hard shot toward your opponent.

• Paddle materials

o Paddles can be made of many different materials, including wood, aluminum, carbon, graphite, composites (such as fiberglass), and plastic. Generally speaking, paddles with a carbon fiber or graphite surface will offer better control than those with a composite surface. Paddles with a composite surface will generally offer more power but less control over placement. Carbon fiber and graphite paddle faces tend to enable the ability to spin the ball better than a composite paddle face as well.

• Price range

o You can find paddles in a wide array of price ranges from about $10 to over $300! While it is not necessary to buy the most expensive paddle out there, I would also caution against buying the cheapest paddle you can find. Higher quality paddles tend to be made with better materials and will allow you to do more advanced techniques as you progress in your learning of the game, such as adding different kinds of spin.

• USA-Pickleball-Approved status

o USA Pickleball is the official national governing body for the sport of pickleball. If you intend to play in any tournaments, then before buying a paddle, you should make sure that the words “USA Pickleball Approved” appear on the paddle. This indicates that the paddle has been inspected by USA Pickleball, has met certain standards, and has been deemed acceptable for official tournament play. To be USA Pickleball Approved, paddles must be of a certain size and weight, must not have a surface with too much texture, and must have a core made of approved materials.

You can buy a new paddle online, such as through pickleballcentral.com or Amazon.com, or in-person at your favorite local sporting goods retailer.

Happy pickling!

As the temperature rises, so does the risk of experiencing heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Recognizing the warning signs and understanding the differences between these conditions can help keep you safe and healthy when playing pickleball this summer.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats, often due to strenuous activity – like pickleball -- in hot, humid weather. Symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pale, and clammy skin
• Muscle cramps
• Fast, weak pulse
• Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting

If left untreated, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke, so it is essential to seek shade, rest, loosen your clothing, and hydrate immediately, when you first experience symptoms. Get medical help right away if you are throwing up, your symptoms worsen, or your symptoms last longer than one hour.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is more severe and occurs when the body's temperature rises to 104°F or higher. It can cause damage to the brain, kidneys, and muscles. Warning signs include:

• High body temperature
• Slurred speech
• Hot, dry, damp, or red skin
• Rapid breathing and heartbeat
• Confusion, agitation, altered mental state, or unconsciousness
• Seizures

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention, so call 911 if you suspect that you or someone else is suffering from this life-threatening condition! In addition, move the person to a cool place, and help lower their body temperature by putting cool cloths or ice on them. Do NOT give the person anything to drink unless they are fully awake and alert and sitting completely upright. Otherwise, doing so could cause them to choke and aspirate.

Prevention is Key

To avoid heat-related illnesses, on hot, humid days, be sure to stay hydrated, wear light-colored and breathable clothing, and take breaks in cool, shaded areas. Additionally, never leave children or pets in hot cars while you are playing.

Conclusion

Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and taking steps to prevent them can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying a safe and healthy summer.

Happy pickling!

As we head into late spring and summer, we are entering prime pickleball tournament season here in Wisconsin. Win or lose, maintaining a positive mindset while playing in a pickleball tournament is crucial for attaining peak performance. It can be easy to get wrapped up in the moment, especially if you just hit an unforced error, or if you realize you are about to play someone who you think is significantly better than you, but keeping a level head can make all the difference. Here's how to stay upbeat and focused throughout the game and not let negativity and anxiety control you.

Why Staying Positive Matters

Keeping a positive mindset during a tournament can help you overcome adversity, improve your performance, and allow you to maintain a healthy perspective on the game. It enables you to manage stress, make better decisions on the court, and enjoy the experience.

Controlling Anxiety

Tournament jitters are normal, but they can impact your game if left unchecked. To manage anxiety:

1. Take slow, deep breaths to calm your mind and body. For example, in between points, slow-count 1-2-3-4 as you inhale and then exhale through your nose.
2. Visualize positive outcomes and focus on your strengths.
3. Stick to your pre-game routine to create a sense of normalcy.

Maintaining Focus

Tournaments can be physically and mentally draining, but staying focused is key to success. To maintain focus:

1. Break down the game into smaller segments to stay present and engaged.
2. Use positive self-talk and visualization to keep your mind on the task at hand.
3. Avoid distractions, such as by not paying attention to spectators, and by focusing on the ball, your paddle, or the lines on the court to bring your attention into the present.

Not Getting Too Down on Yourself

No one's perfect, and mistakes are a natural part of the game. To avoid getting down on yourself:

1. Reframe negative thoughts by focusing on what you have done well; think about the next point, not the last one.

2. Practice self-compassion and give yourself credit for the hard work and practice you've put in.
3. Celebrate small victories and successes for both you and your partner throughout the day.

For many people, staying positive during a pickleball tournament can take some practice and dedication, but the payoff is worth it. By managing anxiety, maintaining focus, and avoiding negative self-talk, you can build a resilient mindset and enjoy the game to the fullest. Remember, the cardinal rule of pickleball is to HAVE FUN!

Happy pickling!

Have you ever wondered how pickleball came to be a sport and why it has such a funny name? Well, if you have, you are not alone! Consider this your history lesson for today:

Pickleball was invented in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, just off the coast of Seattle, Washington. It was invented by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum one day while sitting around at the Pritchards’ home with their families, while everyone was bored with nothing to do. The men wanted to create a fun activity with odds and ends laying around the Pritchards’ house and garage that they could use to play a game.

Pritchard had a badminton net set up on an asphalt court, but he did not have enough rackets for a full game. So, instead, they improvised using spare ping pong paddles and a wiffle ball. The group found that the wiffle ball bounced fairly well on the asphalt court, but they thought that the net seemed a bit high, being set up to the badminton regulation height of 60 inches. So, they decided to lower the net down to 36 inches.

Over time, the families introduced the sport to their friends and the game took off from there, becoming more formalized and regulated over time.

But how exactly did the sport get the name “Pickleball”? There are two different potential origin stories, depending on who you ask. According to Pritchard’s wife, Joan, the game was called pickleball, because the combination of different sports reminded her of the pickle boat in crew where oarsmen were chosen from the leftovers of other boats. However, according to Barney McCallum, the game was actually named after Pritchard’s dog, who was named Pickles! So, no one really knows for sure where the name came from, and both stories may actually be true!

For more information about the history of the sport, see USA Pickleball’s, History of the Game.