Culture and News - Pickleball Rookie

Dink ‘n’ Dish: Big Dill Pickleball Co. Founder Katy Luxem

November 20, 2025April 28, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Dink ‘n’ Dish serves up pickleball profiles that uncover the heart and soul of the pickleball community, one conversation at a time.

My pickleball opponent glared at me, eyes ablaze with fiery intensity.

He stood 14 feet away, close enough for me to watch his muscles pulsate; his nose flair.

Tension high, pressure mounting.

And then I saw it.

Attached to his white-knuckled hand was a paddle adorned with a smiling pickle.

Not just any smiling pickle. But the cutest and friendliest pickle you will ever see.

Damn, I love pickleball.

College Pickleball: Is NCAA Pickleball on the Horizon?

November 20, 2025April 24, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Pickleball is sweeping across college campuses as an exciting and accessible alternative to traditional NCAA sports like basketball, football, and tennis. With its lower risk of injury, ease of learning, and affordability, pickleball is capturing the attention of students and administrators alike. As the movement to establish NCAA pickleball gains momentum, it’s crucial to understand the benefits and challenges of this fast-growing sport, as well as the collaborative efforts required to make it a mainstay in the collegiate athletic landscape.

13 Reasons Why Pickleball Sucks

November 20, 2025April 11, 2023 by Drew Pierce

The most common complaints about pickleball are the noise (“pop-pop-pop”), the perceived lack of athleticism (“it’s for old people”), and the turf war with tennis players. However, the sport is evolving rapidly with noise-dampening paddle technology and a surge in younger, athletic players who are proving the “easy game” myth wrong.

A lot of people think pickleball sucks. I’m not one of them…usually.

It was bound to happen.

I’m just amazed it took 13 months.

I showed up for my usual pickleball open play.

And I sucked.

Not only that, I didn’t even have fun.

I spent two hours losing point after point, game after game. Balls sailed long. My body language was pitiful. And the entire time, I kept thinking, “Pickleball is the dumbest game in the world.”

Anyone who knows me or has read this blog knows that’s not how I really feel. As an ambassador for the sport, I think the pros outweigh the cons. But every sordid love affair is entitled to a bad night or two.

Since I know the pickleball haters are out there, let’s examine why people think pickleball sucks.

It’s in the Stars: Zodiac Signs and Pickleball Play

November 20, 2025April 3, 2023 by Drew Pierce

What if the stars aligned to determine how you play pickleball? We know it sounds out of this world, but for the astrologically inclined, there’s a connection. Here’s a light-hearted look at how your zodiac sign influences your pickleball game.

The Best Pickleball Vacations for Players at All Levels

November 20, 2025March 26, 2023 by Drew Pierce

From all-inclusive spots for a week-long getaway to a la carte overnights, we share some of the best places to travel for a pickleball vacation.

Pickleball fanatics, it’s time to unite and embark on the ultimate adventure – pickleball vacations! With the sport’s meteoric rise in popularity, vacation spots worldwide are jumping on the bandwagon and offering unforgettable experiences tailored to pickleball players of all skill levels.

Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious all-inclusive weeklong retreat or a spontaneous weekend escape to play pickleball, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll unveil some of the most enticing pickleball vacation havens that cater to players at all levels. So, gather your gear, dust off your paddle, and prepare for an exhilarating journey through the captivating world of pickleball vacations!

6 Pickleball Trends You Need to Know About

November 20, 2025March 6, 2023 by Drew Pierce

From more aggressive play to high socks and higher court rental rates, we look at the latest pickleball trends.

Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport that has captured the attention of players of all ages and skill levels. With its unique blend of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, it’s no surprise that pickleball has become a favorite pastime for many.

Let’s explore several of the latest pickleball trends currently taking the sport by storm. From more aggressive play to celebrity investors, these pickleball trends are shaping the future of the sport and helping to take the game to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to pickleball, there’s never been a better time to pick up a paddle and join the fun.

Why Is it Called Pickleball and Other Fun Facts

November 20, 2025January 10, 2023 by Drew Pierce

Why is it called pickleball is a question that has sparked much debate, particularly over the past few years as the sport has grown. Today, pickleball is played by over 37 million people in the U.S. and more around the world, all of who enjoy its fast-paced and competitive nature. So where did the awesome game get its salty name?

Pickleball Wrapped 2022: The Year of the Dink

November 20, 2025December 27, 2022 by Drew Pierce

While Merriam-Webster foolishly chose “gaslighting” as the word of the year, I like my choice better: pickleball.

The three-syllable noun defined my 2022. I started with the sport in March, yet it feels much longer, and that’s a good thing!

I set a goal to play the sport with minimal expectations. But I fell in love; all-consuming love!

Why Is Pickleball So Addictive?

December 3, 2025December 22, 2022 by Drew Pierce

Pickleball addiction is scientifically linked to the “dopamine loop” created by rapid, short rallies and the instant gratification of scoring. Additionally, it fulfills the psychological need for a “Third Place”—a community space outside of home and work—providing social connection and a “flow state” that reduces stress and anxiety.

Over the past year, it has been impossible to escape the pickleball fever that has swept the nation. But, as the fastest-growing sport continues to claim more pickleball addicts, many people are wondering why is pickleball so addictive.

You probably find yourself playing more and more if you are a player. And when you’re not playing pickleball, you are thinking about pickleball or talking about pickleball or dreaming about pickleball. What gives?!

My Pickleball Journey Continues: Am I Now a Marked Man?

November 20, 2025December 18, 2022 by Drew Pierce

I finally figured out why I’ve run into a bit of a wall on my pickleball journey during one of my casual weekly leagues: I’ve become a marked man.

At first, it was my age. Despite being in my mid-forties, I was one of the younger players. This would often lead to players making excuses about their lack of mobility or agility when losing, but it did not stop them from attempting to slam the ball in my face. I was a target.