Who knew that pickleball would become a bona fide racquet-sport when it was first "invented" nearly six decades ago on Bainbridge Island near Seattle? Well, many savvy people did, but not me. A lifelong tournament singles tennis competitor and serious table tennis fanatic from Upstate New York, and I had never even heard of it. At least not until fairly recently. Sure, some knowing folks in my area played all along, however, it took a while for the sport's insane popularity to fully crisscross the country and then the globe. Now that it is so ubiquitous, the rapidly evolving racquets, balls, attire, footwear, jargon, and rules of the game sometimes make it challenging to keep up with. In addition, there are now dedicated indoor and outdoor venues where it can be played at different skill levels, by both sexes, in different age categories, and in singles and doubles. Presently there are tournaments galore and professionals playing for prize money, not to mention the recent formation of genuine pro teams. Who knew it would get so big? Anyway, let's explore my unexpected conversion from tennis to pickleball and subsequent immersion in the sport. Let's also meet some people who play it. Most names and places have been altered so as not to embarrass the egotistical, infirm, incompetent and downright scurvy. Hopefully you will find the tales within the following pages to be humorous and you will laugh along with me. Maybe at me, as well. And DINK responsibly!
