PICKLEBALL - Kitchens & Body-Bagging

Will the continued rise of Pickleball dominate the press and media landscape in the USA or will people bore of the game that could have been called tik-tok? - If you have played it you will know what I mean!

Imagine a game where you're whacking a plastic ball with a paddle that looks like it was borrowed from a giant's ping-pong set, all while trying not to step into the kitchen. That’s Pickleball. This mix of tennis, table-tennis and badminton is all the rage, has oodles of people and cash pouring into the game. You cannot wake up without seeing a story about a new facility being built, a new national body being formed or some local press article discussing the topic.

Controversy is already part of the make-up of this game with municipalities and home-owner-associations (in the USA - HOA) looking to ban or having already banned the quite noisy game in their neighbourhoods.

Pickleball albeit new to many, is in fact an old sport - More modern courts and modern equipment now the norm. In the modern era there are some shenanigans creeping into the game. E.g., The first running serve occurred in a game, at a recent tournament! That totally lit up the Pickleball social media channels, with debate around the legality of the play? Also, we have another 'gamesmanship play' known as body-bagging!

The term "body-bagging" in Pickleball refers to a controversial strategy where players deliberately target their opponents with powerful and aggressive shots, aiming to hit them with the ball.

This aggressive style of play has sparked debate within the Pickleball community regarding sportsmanship, safety, and the spirit of the game. Interestingly the broader discussions within the Pickleball community are all about the balance between competitiveness and inclusivity. Many want to ensure that the sport remains enjoyable and accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. The advocates for fair play emphasize the importance of promoting a culture of respect and sportsmanship on the court, encouraging players to compete with skill and strategy rather than aggression and intimidation. However, it now has competitive leagues, trophy and prize-based competitions, professional players and there are some high stakes at play. Lots of questions around the emergence of a fascinating sport with rules that may adapt as quick as the game has grown over the last year or so!

It could well be an Olympic sport one day!

Anthony Smith Chaigneau