Who Invented Pickleball?

Pickleball is Born in 1965, Seattle Washington

Pickleball, the best game in the world. There are a lot of things up for debate but here at Pickle Ballers Hub the non negotiable for us is, any argument that doesn’t prove pickleball is the best. Well, let’s dink in, to learn about the roots of who invented pickleball. Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell are credited with inventing pickleball in 1965. Although pickleball is on the rise and continues to be in 2023, the roots of pickleball go back much further. These three people deserve the credit when it comes to this amazing game. Pickleball was created at Pritchard's home on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, Washington.

How Pickleball Was Started?

Believe it or not, the pickleball paddle wasn’t always the heartbeat of the game. The game was initially improvised using paddles and a plastic ball when they couldn't find the equipment for badminton. That’s right, the paddle was invented as a substitute for badminton. I guess you can say that if badminton gear was present, the pickleball paddle and game wouldn’t have been invented. Two years after its invention, the first official pickleball court was built at the home of Pritchard's neighbor, Bill O'Brian.

Any pioneer or progressive thinker, saw a solution while others saw a problem. This is the case here with pickleball too. The invention of pickleball was a result of a bit of creativity and improvisation. When Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell set out to play badminton but couldn't find the necessary equipment, they adapted by using ping-pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball. As a badminton court was originally used, this didn't last long. Shortly a pickleball court was made and the game began to come into it's own, with adjustments, rules, proper equipment, a pickleball bag, and bringing together the aspect of badminton, ping pong, and tennis. Pickleball is what we see today because of the pioneers that started it in 1965.

From The Start of Pickleball to Pickleball in 2023

Well, when it comes to having a good time outside, burning calories, and making memories, Pickleball takes the crown on this one. Pickleball is growing at the pace it is because of the facts that everyone can play, regardless of age, skill level, location, and all barriers of entry are broken down. As gym class is still a crucial subject in the education system, kids have begun to play it in school and youth camps, where it's introduced as a fun and accessible sport. For adults and parents, their enjoyment for pickleball is from a social activity that provides a break from their daily routines and a way to stay active.