No matter if you're tucked in the Smoky Mountains or soaking up the sun in Orange Beach, pickleball is the perfect way to mix a little friendly competition into your family fun.
Are you a pickleball enthusiast? Good news—you’re in the right place! In this blog, I've rounded up the best Orange Beach pickleball courts so you can keep the fun going beyond OB’s beautiful beaches and stay active while you’re in town.
New to the game? No worries—you’re in the right place! Below, I’ll break down everything you need to know about playing pickleball, plus some handy tips and skills to help you get the hang of it fast.
Here's a teaser to get you warmed up! 🔥
| Topic | Highlights |
| Where to Play | Orange Beach Recreation Center – 6 indoor courts, $ 10-day pass, memberships and punch cards available. |
| Private Coaching | Pickleball with Chase – private and group lessons, shot analysis, match reviews, mental coaching. |
| Basic Rules | Serve underhand, two-bounce rule to start, games to 11 (win by 2), no volleys in the kitchen zone. |
| Equipment Needed | Paddle, plastic balls (indoor/outdoor), court shoes, breathable clothing, and pickleball bag. |
| How to Learn | Watch tutorials, practice serves against a wall, use bounce boards, and set up home practice drills. |
| Top Skills | Hand-eye coordination, quick footwork, agility. |
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Time to jump into the fun! 🎉
With six indoor hard courts and permanent lines, it’s a dedicated facility for pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Rates & Memberships 💰
The Orange Beach Recreation Center offers several options for playing pickleball.
A $ 10-day pass includes access to the fitness center, aquatics center, and pickleball courts.
If you're a frequent player and recurrent visitor, pickleball is included with an annual Recreation Center membership.
For those who play often but don't want a full membership, 15-session punch cards are available for $100, with one punch per person per session.
The Orange Beach Recreation Center doesn't offer individual court rentals or instruction, but they do have a system to help manage play.
Players choose their court based on skill level:
- 2.0 for novice players.
- 2.5-3.5 for intermediate.
- 4.5 and up for advanced.
Court assignments may change based on daily needs and player volume per experience level.
To get in line for a court, place your paddle in the lineup for your chosen skill level. Only one paddle placement is allowed at a time for court standby.
To help speed up wait times, games are played to 11 points, win by 1. Winners stay on the court and split when 5 or fewer players are waiting. When 12 paddles are waiting, 4 players rotate on and off.
Safety & Etiquette 👍
As with any sports facility, the Orange Beach Recreation Center expects players to be courteous and respectful to staff, members, and guests.
Rude and disrespectful behavior is not tolerated. Players should stop play when a loose ball rolls onto the court, return the ball, and then resume play. Profanity is not allowed.
Pickleball With Chase is your ticket to becoming the pickleball player you've always dreamed of being. 🏆
This unique coaching service offers personalized training and analysis to help players of all levels improve their skills and strategy on the court.
Private Training Options
Chase offers one-on-one sessions tailored to your specific needs.
You can choose between:
- 60-minute sessions for $100.
- 30-minute sessions for $60.
For those committed to rapid improvement, Chase recommends his special package: four 60-minute sessions within a month for $340, saving you 15% compared to individual bookings. 😉
Group Training
If you prefer learning with friends or want to split the cost, group training is available.
Here are the options:
- Two players can enjoy a 30-minute session for $35 per person or a full hour for $60 each.
- For larger groups, three players can train for an hour at $45 per person.
- Four-player sessions cost $35 per person for 60 minutes.
Specialized Services
Shot Analysis
For just $35, you can send Chase a one-minute video of a specific shot you want to improve. He'll provide personalized feedback, instruction, and homework to help you perfect your technique.
Match Analysis
Take advantage of Chase's expertise with a comprehensive match analysis for $100. Send a 15-to 25-minute video of your gameplay, and Chase will offer detailed feedback on your strategy and tactics.
Mental Performance Coaching
Pickleball isn't just about physical skills – the mental game is crucial too. Chase offers mental performance sessions for $100, focusing on stress management, resilience, and playing your best under pressure. 💪
Basic Pickleball Rules
If you're new to pickleball don't worry! The basic rules are easy to grasp, and you'll be playing in an Orange Beach pickleball court in no time. 👏
Here are some important rules:
- Court: Pickleball is played on a court that's about a quarter the size of a tennis court. It's divided into sections by lines, including a non-volley zone near the net, affectionately known as the "kitchen." Remember, you can't step into the kitchen to hit a volley!
- Serving: To begin the game, the serving team gets one chance to serve the ball diagonally across the court. The serve must be made underhand and contact the ball below waist level. After the serve, the receiving team must let the ball bounce once before returning it. The serving team also has to let that return bounce once. After these two bounces, it's game on! Players can then hit the ball in the air or after a bounce.
- Scoring: Scoring in pickleball is unique. Only the serving team can score points, and games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2. Each team gets to serve until they commit a fault, and then the serve passes to the other team.
- Faults: There are a few ways to lose a rally. Hitting the ball out of bounds, into the net, or failing to clear the net will cost you the point. Also, stepping into the kitchen to hit a volley is a no-no. 🙅♀️
Extra info:
One of the most exciting aspects of pickleball is the fast-paced action at the net. Players often engage in quick exchanges called "dinking," where they softly hit the ball just over the net, trying to outmaneuver their opponents.
Pickleball is typically played as doubles, but singles is an option too. The rules remain largely the same, with a few minor adjustments for court coverage.
Remember, pickleball is all about having fun! While competition can be fierce, the sport has a reputation for being social and welcoming. So grab a paddle, find some friends, and give it a try. You'll be hooked in no time! 😄
What You Need to Play Pickleball
- 🏓 Paddle: Pickleball paddles come in various materials, including wood, composite, and graphite. While wooden paddles are budget-friendly and great for beginners, composite and graphite options offer improved performance and feel. The shape and weight of your paddle can also impact your play style, so it's worth trying out a few to find your perfect match.
- 🎾 Balls: Pickleball uses unique plastic balls with holes, similar to wiffle balls. They come in two main types: indoor and outdoor. Indoor balls are lighter and have larger holes, while outdoor balls are slightly heavier and more durable to withstand wind and rougher surfaces. Make sure you're using the right ball for your playing environment!
- 👟 Footwear: Look for court shoes that offer good lateral support, cushioning, and a non-marking sole. Tennis or volleyball shoes can work well for pickleball, but there are also shoes designed specifically for the sport.
- 👕 Moisture-wicking clothing: Many players opt for athletic shorts or skirts paired with breathable tops. Some even sport pickleball-themed apparel to show their love for the game.
- 🎒 Pickleball bag: Many options are available, from simple drawstring bags to more elaborate backpacks with dedicated compartments for paddles, balls, and other accessories.
- Extras: consider picking up some overgrips to customize your paddle's handle, a sweatband to keep perspiration at bay, and maybe even some protective eyewear for added safety on the court.
How to Play Pickleball: A step-by-step guide
It might seem intimidating at first, but pickleball is easy to learn.
Here's a quick step-by-step:
- Grip: Hold your paddle like you're shaking hands with it. This "handshake grip" gives you versatility for different shots. For more power, try the "Western grip" by rotating your hand slightly to the side. Experiment to find what feels most comfortable and effective for you.
- Serving: In pickleball, you serve underhand, making contact with the ball below your waist. Aim diagonally across the court, and make sure the ball clears the non-volley zone (aka the "kitchen"). A good serve is all about placement rather than power, so focus on accuracy. Mix it up with deep serves to push your opponents back, or short serves just over the kitchen line to keep them guessing.
- Scoring: Only the serving team can score points, and games are typically played to 11 (win by 2). When you're serving, call out three numbers: the serving team's score, the receiving team's score, and which server you are (1 or 2). For example, "4-2-1" means the serving team has 4 points, the receiving team has 2, and it's the first server's turn.
❗Remember, in doubles, each player on a team gets to serve before the serve passes to the other team (unless you're the first serving team of the game – then only one player serves). It might sound complicated, but it becomes second nature after a few games.
What are the Three Skills Needed to Play Pickleball?
Pickleball's a blast, and mastering these three skills will up your game:
- Hand-eye coordination is crucial for nailing those precise shots. 👀
- Quick footwork helps you cover the court effortlessly. 🦶
- And don't forget agility – it's your secret weapon for swift direction changes and reaching those tricky shots. 🏃
How to Learn Pickleball by Yourself
Want to learn pickleball solo?
Here are some tips:
- Start by watching online tutorials to grasp the basics.
- Practice your serve against a wall, focusing on accuracy.
- Use a bounce board to improve your dinks and volleys.
- Set up targets in your driveway to enhance shot placement.
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