On August 22 in pickleball history, one of the most interesting stories involves the early origins and naming of the sport. Although August 22 itself might not mark a famous tournament or world championship ending, it sits close to milestones reflecting how pickleball evolved from a backyard family game to America’s fastest-growing sport, and that journey is full of colorful moments.
Pickleball was invented in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. They created the game as a solution to entertain their families on a lazy weekend when badminton gear was missing. Initially, they used a lowered badminton net, wooden paddles crafted in local workshops, and a perforated plastic ball. They mixed elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis into a brand-new sport that quickly caught the imagination of locals. One of the most debated and fun historical details about pickleball is the origin of its unusual name - “pickleball.”
There are two well-known stories about how the sport got its name. The official story credited to Joan Pritchard, Joel’s wife, says that she coined the term “pickle ball” referring to the “pickle boat” in crew races where leftover rowers from other boats would be thrown together into a team. She thought that since the game was concocted from bits and pieces of other sports, the name fit perfectly. On the other hand, a charming but less accurate tale involves the Pritchard family dog named Pickles, who supposedly chased balls and inspired the name. However, research into family records suggests Pickles the dog was born several years after the game was named, confirming Joan’s version as the true origin story. This playful historical debate continues to be a cherished part of pickleball lore among enthusiasts who celebrate the humble, quirky beginnings of their sport.
Over the years, pickleball expanded far beyond that family driveway. By the late 1960s, dedicated outdoor pickleball courts began to appear, and in 1968 the first company, Pickle Ball, Incorporated, was formed to promote and manufacture equipment. Enthusiasts started to spread the game geographically, especially helped by “snowbirds” bringing pickleball from cold northern states to warm southern regions like Arizona, California, Florida, and Hawaii.
These grassroots developments laid the groundwork for the explosive growth seen today. In modern times, the sport has witnessed record-breaking international tournaments with thousands of participants and tens of thousands of fans. Events like the US Open Pickleball Championships and World Championships attract professional athletes worldwide, and major media outlets call these tournaments the “Super Bowl of Pickleball.” What started as a family pastime on a quiet summer day has become a vibrant community celebrating competition, camaraderie, and fun.
So August 22 reminds us of pickleball’s deep history rooted in family, creativity, and the fun spirit that defined its naming. It reflects the enduring legacy of pickleball as a sport that grew from simple backyard games to a world phenomenon, thanks to pioneers who embraced curiosity and joy.
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