How did pickleball get its name?

2023-03-17

Pickleball is a unique sport with an equally unique name. The origins of the name "pickleball" have been a topic of debate among players and enthusiasts for many years. In this article, we will explore the various theories behind how the sport got its unique name.

Theory 1: Named after the creator's dog

One of the most popular theories about the origin of pickleball's name involves the creator's dog. Joel Pritchard, one of the sport's inventors, had a dog named Pickles who would often chase after the ball during play. According to this theory, Pickles became so involved in the game that he would often retrieve the ball and run off with it, prompting the players to yell "pickles!" to alert each other of the dog's presence. Over time, the name "pickleball" stuck.
While this theory has gained widespread popularity over the years, there is little evidence to support the claim. According to Joan Pritchard, Joel's wife, the story is inaccurate, as the dog was not even born until several years after the game was invented.

Theory 2: Named after a boat
Another theory surrounding the origin of pickleball's name is that it was inspired by a boat owned by one of the game's founders. According to this theory, the sport was originally played on a boat owned by Joel Pritchard and his friends, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum. The boat was named "Pickled Herring," which was shortened to "pickleboat" over time. As the game evolved, the name "pickleball" emerged as a natural progression from the boat's name.
While this theory seems plausible, there is little concrete evidence to support it. Additionally, some argue that the boat was actually named after the sport, rather than the other way around.

Theory 3: Named after a term used in boating
A third theory concerning the origin of pickleball's name involves a term used in boating. It is said that the term "pickle boat" referred to a vessel that contained a mishmash of oarsmen, often made up of leftover crew members from other boats. According to this theory, the name "pickleball" emerged as a nod to the sport's mixed nature, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong.
This theory seems credible, as the sport was indeed created by blending elements of several different games. However, there is little evidence to suggest that the term "pickle boat" was commonly used or widely known outside of the world of rowing.

Theory 4: Named after a real estate development
Finally, some believe that pickleball's name originated from a real estate development called "Pickle's Place." According to this theory, Joel Pritchard invented the game while visiting Pickle's Place with his friends. As the game grew in popularity, it became known as "pickleball" in honor of the place where it was first played.
While this theory seems plausible, there is little evidence to support it. Additionally, some argue that the real estate development was actually named after the sport, rather than the other way around.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the true origin of pickleball's name remains a mystery. While each of these theories offers a plausible explanation, none have been definitively proven. Despite this uncertainty, the sport has continued to grow in popularity, bringing joy and excitement to players across the world. Regardless of its name's origin, pickleball remains a fun and engaging sport that combines elements of many different games and provides countless hours of entertainment to players of all ages and skill levels.

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