Pickleball
Pickleball at Buhl Park
Welcome to pickleball at Buhl Park! With six courts conveniently situated on the golf side, players of all levels can enjoy the fun of this rapidly growing sport amidst the picturesque setting of Buhl Park. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, there’s something here for everyone to experience and enjoy.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, table tennis and badminton. The game can be planned indoors or outdoors while using a ball similar to, but smaller and harder than, a wiffle ball.
The game can be played in singles (1 vs. 1) or doubles (2 vs. 2). It is a sport created for all ages, skill levels and those who want to stay active and socially engaged in a fun way. The game is easy for beginners to learn, but it can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players.
How to Play
SERVING: Server starts in the right court and serves to the court diagonally opposite. The ball must travel past the non-volley area zone line. The receiver must let the ball bounce once before hitting it. One the first return of service, the server (or partner) must also let the ball bounce before hitting it. After that, players may also volley, unless they are standing in the non-volley area, “The Kitchen”
SCORING: The server scores when the opponent fails to return the ball over the net. Only the serving team can score points. A game is won when a player or team has 11 points and leads the opponent by at least 2 points. Matches are two out of three games.
Player & Court Rotation
Courts are open from dawn to dusk.
Court use is on a first come, first serve basis unless otherwise designated by Buhl Park Staff.
Open Play Rotation is defined as any time the courts are full, and players are waiting to play. During these times, everyone will abide by the following rules:
- Court time will be shared equally.
- No singles play or practicing.
- Courts 1, 2, 4, & 5 will utilize the “2 on – 2 off” method. Winners stay on for no more than 2 consecutive matches.
- Players wanting to play on Courts 1, 2, 4, & 5 will place their paddles in the paddle rack on the outside fence near the entrance to the courts. Players in wait proceed to the next available open court when it is their turn.
- Courts 3 & 6 will utilize the “4 on – 4 off” method. Once a match has concluded, all 4 players must exit the court to allow for the next group of 4 players. You must have 4 players in your group before you can get in line to take the next open court.
- Players wanting to play on Courts 3 & 6 will place their paddles in the corresponding courts paddle racks that they prefer to play on.
- All games are played to 11, win by 1 to allow for a steady pace of play.
- Once your match is completed, place your paddles at the end of the line of the appropriate paddle rack if continuing to play.
Court Reservations
Court reservation price is $40 per hour, per court. Courts can only be reserved between 11:00 AM – Dusk.
Information/Contact
- If there is an emergency, please call 911.
- Non-emergency Park Ranger assistance, please call 724-854-1137
- Buhl Park Office, please call 724-981-5522 or email at info@buhlpark.org
Code of Conduct
Buhl Park asks that all players agree to the following code of conduct, which is established to provide an environment in which all players can play the game to the best of their abilities – and most importantly, to enjoy themselves while doing so.
- All players are expected to treat others fairly and with respect.
- The use of obscene language or gestures is not permitted.
- Behavior that endangers the health or safety of others is strictly prohibited.
- Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated.
- Please pick up any litter and properly dispose it in garbage cans.
- Do not climb on nets or fencing.
- Only Pickleball play is permitted inside the fenced area.
- Please refrain from sitting on the driving range tees.
- Unauthorized paid services or lessons are prohibited (Please contact the Buhl Park Office to inquire about hosting paid services/lessons)
- Please keep all dogs on a leash and under owners’ control at all times.
