The Unspoken Rules of Rec Pickleball Play

Because it’s not just how you play—it’s how you show up

It’s summer and the pickleball crowds is showing up in force at our local courts. By 9:00 there’s at least a 2 or 3 foursome wait. Sure, there are rules posted on the fence, but as any regular player knows, there’s a set of unspoken rules that keep things running smoothly. These rules matter as much as the ones on the sign. Break them, and you’ll feel the cold shoulder. Follow them, and you’ll be welcomed back (and maybe even offered a post-game beverage). Here are some of the most important:

1. Don’t Be a Paddle Stacker Bully

There’s a reason for paddle stacking, especially when there’s a crowd, it’s so everyone gets their fair share of playing time. Don't rearrange the stack to get yourself in faster. Don’t sneak in a “friend game” while others are waiting. And don’t hover at the fence asking “who’s next?” if you already played two in a row. Don’t be that player.

2. Know the Vibe—and Match It

Rec play has many flavors: some sessions are light, chatty, and full of drop-shot experiments. Others lean competitive, even if no one's keeping score past 11. Before you start rifling speed-ups or lecturing about foot faults, ask yourself: Is this the right vibe? If you're a 4.0 crashing a 3.0 session for an ego boost, that’s not a flex—it’s a foul.

3. Apologize Less, Encourage More

Yes, you missed an easy dink. Yes, you hit your partner in the shoulder. It’s okay. Constant apologies make the game feel heavy. A quick “got it next time” or a laugh goes a lot further than three “sorry”s in one point. Rec play thrives on lightness—give it.

4. Don’t Coach Unless You’re Asked

This is a big one. Unless you were invited to give feedback, don’t offer it—especially mid-game. “Try holding your paddle lower” or “you should’ve gone middle” might be meant to help, but it usually doesn’t land that way. Let people play. If they want advice, they’ll ask.

5. Rotate and Welcome

Rec play is social. So rotate partners, mix up pairings, and invite new faces in. It’s easy to fall into cliques or play only with people you know, but the spirit of pickleball is inclusive. That doesn’t mean you can’t have regulars—but if someone’s standing by the gate with paddle in hand, a simple “Want to jump in?” goes a long way.

Bonus Rule: Bring Good Energy

Whether you’re there to win or just sweat a little, bring energy that makes people want to play with you again. Be gracious, be fun, and don’t take yourself too seriously. The real magic of rec pickleball isn’t the score—it’s the shared rhythm of a good rally, a few laughs, and the feeling that everyone belongs on the court.