Pickleball Serve

The serve in pickleball is a crucial part of the game, and it must be executed within the rules to ensure fair play. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform a legal and effective pickleball serve:

1. Positioning:
   • Stand behind the baseline, with both feet behind the back boundary line.
2. Service Box:
   • The serve must be made diagonally across the court to the opponent's service box. You must serve from the right-hand side of the court to the diagonal service box on the opposite side.
3. Hold the Paddle:
   • Grip the paddle with both hands, using an eastern or continental grip. Make sure your hands are relaxed, and your wrists are flexible.
4. Ready Stance:
   • Position yourself with your weight on the back foot, knees slightly bent, and your body facing diagonally towards the net and the opponent's service box.
5. Double Bounce Rule:
   • The serve, like all subsequent shots in pickleball, must bounce once on each side of the net. The server's goal is to make a successful serve that clears the non-volley zone (also known as the kitchen) and lands in the opponent's service box.
6. Underhand Serve:
   • In pickleball, serves must be made underhand. The paddle must be below the server's wrist when striking the ball. The ball must be hit below the server's waist.
7. Foot Faults:
   • Both feet must remain in contact with the ground behind the baseline until the ball is struck. Avoid stepping on or over the baseline.
8. Contact with the Ball:
   • Make contact with the ball when it is below your waist level. This ensures a controlled and legal underhand serve.
9. No Spin Serves:
   • Serves must not be made with excessive spin or with a slicing motion. Keep the serve flat and controlled.
10. Follow Through:
    • Follow through with your paddle after making contact with the ball. The follow-through should be smooth and controlled.
11. Serve Placement:
    • Aim to serve to different areas of your opponent's service box to keep them guessing. Utilize both the forehand and backhand serves to add variety.
12. Be Mindful of Faults:
    • Avoid serving faults, such as foot faults, hitting the ball too high, or serving into the wrong service box. A fault results in the loss of the serve.

Remember, practicing your serve is essential for improvement. Pay attention to your technique, and consider working with a coach or experienced players to refine your serving skills. Additionally, familiarize yourself with any specific rules or guidelines established by the pickleball organization or facility where you play.