Pickleball court use and rules fall under Pelham Parks and Recreation. Any questions should be directed to them at 603-635-2721 or Lynne Hildreth, our Pelham Pickleball Coordinator, at lynnehildreth@comcast.net.
The Town of Pelham maintains four outdoor Pickleball courts that are available dawn to dusk every day free of charge in back of the Hobbs Community Center, 8 Nashua Rd.
The courts are for public use. *Private bookings are not permitted. Pelham Parks and Recreation may block court time as needed for lessons or events. They have priority.
We also have three lined indoor courts available for open play during colder weather and occasional rainy days at the BSRC Wellness and Recreation Center located in the rear entrance of the Pentecostal Church, 955 Bridge Street, Pelham, NH for a nominal fee.
Ready to Play?
To join in the play, please use Sign-up Genius to see who is playing at a particular day/time and others seeing your intent to play may join you.
Signing up on SUG does not reserve a court. Please see kiosk at the courts.
Comment with the time you will arrive, and your level of play.
Please play one game and then join our rotation to play again.
If no one is waiting, feel free to continuous play.
Paddles and balls can be borrowed from the Hobbs during their hours of operation; Monday-Friday 8:30am–3:00pm.
All equipment MUST be returned BEFORE 3:00pm.
There is also equipment to borrow in the court shed. Please be sure to return it when done playing.
Court Rules and Regulations:
- DO NOT hang anything on the mesh fencing.
- It is the responsibility of each player to play within their ability.
- It is recognized that there is a possibility of getting injured and you do so at your own risk.
Additional Info:
Lessons: Free uncertified instructor or fee-based certified instructor beginner lessons and intermediate skills and drills are offered.
Email: Request to be added to our Pickleball Email List for updates to our program.
Tournaments: Are offered both indoor and out as fun & fundraising events occasionally.
Please contact: lynnehildreth@comcast.net for any of the above.
Pickleball Etiquette from “Picklebackers”
Before the Game
- Be Punctual – Whether playing in a scheduled match or open play, arriving on time shows respect for your partner and opponents.
- Introduce Yourself – In recreational play, a quick handshake, light paddle tap, or friendly greeting helps create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Clarify Rules if Necessary – In different places, rules can vary slightly. If playing in a new location, ask about house rules regarding scoring, line calls, or stacking (for doubles).
During Play
Serving & Scoring
- Announce the Score Clearly – Say the full score before each serve and pause to ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Wait for Readiness – Before serving, check that your opponents are ready to receive.
Fair Play
- Make Honest Line Calls – If you’re unsure whether a ball was in or out, give the benefit of the doubt to your opponents.
- Accept Opponents’ Calls Respectfully – Even if you disagree, respect their judgment unless asked for your opinion.
- No “Hooking” (Cheating on Line Calls) – It’s a friendly game; calling a fair game is more important than winning a point.
- Shot Selection & Strategy
- Don’t Smash at Weaker Players in Rec Play – Competitive play is different, but in casual games, avoid targeting beginners with hard overheads.
- Respect the Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone) Rules – Don’t argue over foot faults. If in doubt, play with integrity and call it on yourself.
- Don’t Play Every Ball in Doubles – Give your partner a chance to play instead of hogging every shot.
General Court Behavior
- Limit Excessive Talking During Play – Too much chatter can be distracting to your opponents and partner.
- Avoid Interrupting a Point – Don’t walk onto a court or call a ball “out” before it lands.
- Don’t Play Loud Music on the Court – Keep the environment pleasant for all.
- After the Game
- Acknowledge Good Play – Compliment great shots from both teammates and opponents.
- Tap Paddles and Say “Good Game” – It’s customary to tap paddles (lightly) (a substitute for handshakes) at the net after the match.
- Be Gracious in Victory or Defeat – Celebrate wins with humility and accept losses with grace.
General Pickleball Courtesy
- Return Stray Balls Politely – If a ball rolls onto your court, stop play, return it gently, and wait for the other players to acknowledge it.
- Wait for Play to Stop Before Crossing Courts – Never walk behind or in between courts while a point is being played.
- Avoid Excessive Complaining – Bad calls, wind, or sun are part of the game. Play through them without whining.
- Help New Players Learn – Encourage and assist beginners rather than being overly critical.
Handling Common Etiquette Issues
- Politely say, “I thought it was in, but it’s your call.”
- If playing recreationally, you can agree to replay the point.
- Use clear communication: “I’d like to take some of those forehand shots when they come my way.”
- If it’s a friendly game, let it go. If it’s happening repeatedly in competitive play, politely ask, “Are you sure? It looked in from here.”
- Apologize immediately. Accidents happen, but a simple “Sorry about that!” helps maintain good sportsmanship.
