Have you ever wondered how a sport that’s booming in clubs, parks and backyards began? The story of Pickleball is surprisingly humble—and it all started with three inventive dads looking to keep their families active one summer.
The Summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island
It was the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Joel Pritchard and his friend Bill Bell returned from a round of golf to find their families sitting around un‑inspired. Pritchard’s home had a badminton court in the backyard, but the shuttlecocks were missing. So they improvised: ping‑pong paddles, a whiffle‑type ball, and a lower net. Their objective? Fun. But the result? The birth of a new sport.
Shortly after, the duo invited their handy neighbor, Barney McCallum, to refine the setup. McCallum built the first wooden paddles, helped set the court dimensions, and is considered the third co‑creator of pickleball. Barney also helped create the name of pickleball.
Why That Matters Today
That backyard moment kicked off a chain reaction. From casual family games to club leagues, pickleball evolved fast. The makeshift equipment — plywood paddles, a borrowed badminton net — gave way to custom gear and serious competition. If you’re curious about how paddles evolved, check our All About Paddles guide.
It also shows an important lesson: innovation often comes from simple beginnings. And for brands like Salted City Sports, that’s part of why we love pickleball — it combines personality with performance.
A Quick Timeline
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1965 – The game is invented in Pritchard’s yard on Bainbridge Island.
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1967 – The first permanent court is built, making pickleball less “garage experiment” and more “serious play.”
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1972 and beyond – Pickleball gear begins production, rules are refined, and the sport begins to spread nationally.
What This Means for You
So what does this history mean if you’re picking up a paddle for the first time?
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You’re playing something rooted in creativity and fun, not just competition.
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The sport’s origins in “family play” still show up in the way pickleball welcomes all ages and skill levels.
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When you choose a paddle or gear, you’re part of a story—one that began with a few friends, some spare equipment, and a desire to stay active. Check out our Evo- Lite Series if you’re looking to start.
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If you don't want a generic paddle or design, you can customize your pickleball paddle with your own graphics, logos, and colors.
Final Serve
The next time you’re on court, remember this: a congressman (Joel Pritchard), a businessman (Bill Bell), and a neighbor with tools (Barney McCallum) invented pickleball simply to have fun. From that modest start came an international sport with millions of players.
Whether you’re playing for fun, fitness, or a friendly rivalry—pickleball blends simplicity and excitement in a way that few sports can. So grab a paddle, embrace the history, and let your own play story begin.