HOME OF MAPLE LEAF PICKLEBALL!
BASIC SAFETY ON THE COURTS
Don’t overplay your current physical condition. (“Just one more game” has caused way too many accidents!)
Hydrate. This means “drink water” BEFORE you are thirsty; otherwise it’s too late.
Stretch before and AFTER playing.
If you hit a ball into another court, immediately YELL “Ball”. Do NOT chase it onto the other court where play is ongoing. Put your hand up if you are the server so the other court knows who to return the ball to.
If a ball comes onto your court from another court, STOP PLAY AT ONCE. Same if you hear “Ball” yelled from another court. Don’t just swat the ball back. Pick it up and toss it to the player on the other court unless the nets are tied high enough above the ground to allow the ball to go underneath. Then swat it courteously in the direction of the opponent.
If you are going behind an active court to get to a vacant court or to leave a court, wait until their current point is over and move quickly as a group to clear the court.
If you see someone who displays signs of dizziness, weakness, or lack of concentration, keep an eye on them. Recommend a time-out if you think it necessary for their sake.
If you see someone playing with “bad” shoes…sandals, non-court-shoes, leather soles of any kind, strongly encourage them to change their shoes from a safety perspective. Ultimately it is their choice as they signed the Waiver of Liability.
Be conscious of where your partner is. Don’t hit balls when your partner is in your way (e.g. post swing ball flight, paddle swing path or your approach to the ball).
Agree in advance that you will cover lobs if your partner’s mobility is limited and you can go back safely; otherwise, let the lobs go. Do not risk injury for a point.
When covering a lob, do not back step. Turn and run backwards or sidestep backwards if it can be done safely.
FYI: A lob is a lofted shot that sends the ball high overhead and deep. Purpose: To catch the opponent off guard or force him/her back to the baseline (offensive). It can also be effective as a defensive shot to buy time to get into position for an offensive shot.
Don’t dive for balls; it’s just a game.
If someone falls on the court, all play STOPS until their needs are addressed. Most, if not all, locations have a DeFib unit as well as a first-aid kit. The Host should know who at each site is First Aid trained.
