What is Pickleball? Discover the Game Taking Australia by Storm
Pickleball is a dynamic and fast-growing sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis into a fun, accessible game. Played on a smaller court with a paddle and a lightweight, perforated ball, pickleball is popular for its social nature and appeal across all age groups and skill levels.
The game can be played as singles or doubles, with the objective of scoring points by skilfully hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court. The pace and simplicity make it a versatile sport that’s quickly gaining traction not only in Australia but around the world.
A Brief History of Pickleball
Despite its relatively new presence in Australia, pickleball originated in the United States in the mid-1960s. The game was initially developed as a family-friendly activity, combining the best of racket sports into an easy-to-learn and enjoyable pastime.
Since then, it has gained a dedicated following, becoming especially popular in North America.
Today, as pickleball continues to grow internationally, it’s also finding a dedicated player base across Australian communities, with new courts emerging in several states and territories.
People playing pickleball back in the late 1960s (source: History of Pickleball)
Why Pickleball is Perfect for Australian Clubs
One reason pickleball is expanding rapidly in Australia is its compatibility with existing facilities. Tennis clubs, for instance, can easily convert a portion of their courts into pickleball courts by adding new lines, adjusting net heights, and organising the courts for multiple games.
This integration offers a smart solution for clubs looking to increase space utilisation and attract a broader range of players. As a result, pickleball is becoming a fixture at many tennis clubs, with dedicated venues continuing to appear across the country.
Our Design Approach at SPORTENG
At SPORTENG, we live and breathe the art of designing exceptional sports facilities. With a mantra of "measure twice, cut once," our team is committed to achieving the highest standards for each court, ensuring a space that meets the needs of the players and the broader community. Whether you’re looking for a standalone pickleball facility or want to add pickleball to an existing tennis court, SPORTENG’s team of experienced engineers and designers brings technical expertise to every project.
For every pickleball court, we emphasise playability, safety, and durability. Our designs incorporate essential features, such as robust court surfaces that offer consistent ball bounce and traction, enhancing both the gameplay and safety of players.
We offer several surface options—including acrylic, concrete, and asphalt—all designed to meet pickleball specifications and deliver an enjoyable playing experience over time. Additionally, we ensure all measurements, layouts, and structural elements align with both pickleball guidelines and relevant multi-sport standards for versatile use.
Engineering for Success
At SPORTENG, our engineering doesn’t stop at the playing surface. We take a comprehensive approach, designing pickleball courts that integrate lighting and amenities for players and spectators alike, creating an inviting environment that enhances the overall experience. Our courts not only meet pickleball’s technical guidelines but are also built to stand up to heavy use, providing reliable, top-notch facilities for communities across Australia.
For more on our pickleball expertise and how we can help you bring a pickleball court to life, visit our Pickleball Sports Page and discover the possibilities with SPORTENG.