Rulesmtlpickleball25cr2025-04-16T15:28:10-04:00 GAME RULES 1. THE SERVE Must be made underhand with the paddle below the waist. Server stands behind the baseline and serves diagonally. Ball must clear the non-volley zone (“kitchen”) and land in the correct court. Only one serve attempt allowed, except for a let (if the ball touches the net and lands in the correct service court). 2. DOUBLE BOUNCE RULE The ball must bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed. After the two bounces, players can volley (hit the ball before it bounces) or play it off the bounce. 3. THE NON-VOLLEY ZONE “KITCHEN” The kitchen is a 7-foot zone on both sides of the net. Players cannot volley while standing in the kitchen or if momentum carries them into it. Players can enter the kitchen to play a ball only if it has bounced first. 4. SCORING Only the serving team can score points. Games are typically played to 11 points, and a team must win by 2 points. In doubles, both partners serve before the serve switches to the other team (except at the start of the game, when only one partner serves). 5. FAULTS (POINT GOES TO OPPONENT) Serving the ball out of bounds. Not clearing the net. Volleying while standing inside the kitchen. Not following the double bounce rule. PLAY FAIR & HAVE FUN! RULES OF CONDUCT RESPECT & SPORTSMANSHIP Treat all players, staff, and guests with respect. Maintain good sportsmanship on and off the court. No abusive language, shouting, or aggressive behavior. COURT ETIQUETTE Wear proper indoor sports shoes (non-marking soles). Do not enter a court while a game is in progress. Call out the score before each serve. Limit warm-ups and practice time if others are waiting. FAIR PLAY & SHARING THE COURT Adhere to scheduled playing times and court reservations. Rotate courts fairly in open play sessions. Do not hold courts beyond your allotted time. CLEAN & SAFE ENVIRONMENT Dispose of trash and keep the facility clean. No food or drinks (except water) on the courts. Report any damages or safety hazards to staff. Do not open or tamper with the privacy screens. TECHNOLOGY & DISTRACTIONS Set phones to silent mode while playing. Avoid prolonged phone calls inside the playing area. ZERO TOLERANCE FOR MISCONDUCT Any form of harassment, bullying, or discrimination will not be tolerated. Repeated violations may result in suspension or revocation of membership. HAVE FUN & GROW THE GAME! Encourage new players and foster a welcoming community.