PICKEBALL

BY BETH PARRY

The game is a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. The name comes from being “pickled,” which is when a team scores zero points in a whole game. The other story goes it was named after the originator’s dog, Pickle.

Regardless of the name, the game is worth a try.

and life lessons my Wednesday night adventure would ultimately provide.

This is what I learned.

Seek Help

Because pickleball is so popular there are a lot of newbies like me walking in on any given night. It is a game of humility. Less experienced players are given room to learn and make mistakes. More experienced strangers step up as willing teachers. I am grateful for the professionals who mentored me as I grew my confidence and business. I learned something from all of them. In pickleball, you play a little softer when paired with someone just starting out. There is no need to smash the ball right away. Respectful competition is admired and appreciated both on the court and in business.

Get Set for the Right Shot

The first night was uncomfortable. I thought this was a leisurely sport, easy to pick up. But just like starting a business, I quickly strained a few muscles my first time out.

I was not prepared for the business

To successfully execute, you must always be paddle-ready and in position. When returning a serve, it is better to make the softer calculated shot. The certainty allows you time to move closer to the “kitchen” (or the nonvolley line). This is where the game is played and won. Wait for the right opportunity, then attack. Playing deep at the baseline is riskier and your shot is likely to go flying out of bounds because you hit it too hard. There will be opportunities to smash it for the point, but it is the disciplined short soft shots (dinks) that set you up first.

Do not Judge the Pickler

My biggest reason for not wanting to try Pickleball was I thought it was a game for retirees. Most of the people I saw playing were of a ‘certain age’ and stage in life. I quickly learned that the “older” players clean up and that the younger players and natural athletes must learn game basics and rules just like players of any age. There is no advantage. I was “pickled” on my first night by a pleasant older man who could barely move on the court. His ball placement sent me scrambling. By week four I easily beat a young tennis player and his girlfriend. Never judge a book, pickler, or opportunity by its cover. Less can mean more.

Play with Integrity

Winning is great, but in Pickleball, business, and life, playing with integrity is everything. You need to know the proper score and say it loudly so everyone playing knows where the game stands. Communicate with your partner, especially at the center court. Most misses happen at the seam because no one calls for the ball. Above all, play with a generous heart when it comes to controversial calls. Your reputation and attitude are more important than gaining a point. Show sportsmanship by tapping paddles for a game well played, win, or lose.

Take Pride in the Progress

In sports, winning is the goal. In welcoming diverse partners, and managing changing circumstances are lessons that help me to succeed on and off the court.

Do not sit on the sidelines during a slow season. Pick up a paddle and try something new.

Pickleball, leveling up is the real prize. Incremental progress when you are running your own small business matters. Having patience,