In recent years, a curious sport with an even more curious name has been taking the world by storm. Pickleball, once a niche pastime, has exploded in popularity, becoming the fastest-growing sport in America. With its distinctive blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, pickleball has captured the hearts of players young and old, from casual backyard enthusiasts to fierce competitors.
But what exactly is pickleball? Picture a court about a quarter the size of a tennis court, players wielding solid paddles, and a perforated plastic ball bouncing back and forth across a low net. The game is easy to learn but challenging to master, offering a perfect balance of accessibility and competitiveness that has fueled its meteoric rise.
Yet, behind this modern phenomenon lies a tale as intriguing as the sport itself. Despite its current ubiquity in community centers, schools, and dedicated courts across the nation, pickleball boasts a rich history that stretches back nearly six decades. From its humble beginnings as a backyard game invented by bored families to its evolution into a nationally recognized sport, pickleball’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and a bit of serendipity.
And then there’s that name. Pickleball. It rolls off the tongue in a way that’s both amusing and perplexing. Is it named after a pickle? A ball? Both? Neither? The story behind pickleball’s moniker is as colorful and contested as the game itself, adding another layer of intrigue to this already fascinating sport.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the origins of pickleball, exploring its unexpected birth, its rapid development, and the peculiar circumstances that led to its distinctive name. Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball pro or someone who’s just heard the term for the first time, prepare to be entertained and enlightened by the remarkable history of America’s fastest-growing sport.
The Birth of Pickleball
A Summer’s Day on Bainbridge Island
Picture a lazy summer afternoon in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. This picturesque island, just a short ferry ride from Seattle, was about to become the birthplace of a sport that would captivate millions decades later. The scene was set: families on vacation, children complaining of boredom, and a group of creative adults determined to save the day.
The Founding Fathers of Pickleball
Enter our protagonists: Joel Pritchard, a congressman from Washington State; Bill Bell, a successful businessman; and Barney McCallum, a local entrepreneur. These three friends and their families were spending the weekend at Pritchard’s summer home on Bainbridge Island. Little did they know that their attempt to entertain their restless children would lead to the creation of a new sport.
Pritchard and Bell returned from a golf outing to find their families sitting around with nothing to do. The property had an old badminton court, but they couldn’t find a full set of rackets. This setback might have ended the story before it began, but instead, it sparked an idea that would change recreational sports forever.
Improvisation Leads to Innovation
In true American spirit, Pritchard, Bell, and McCallum decided to improvise. They gathered what sporting equipment they could find:
- A set of ping-pong paddles
- A perforated plastic ball (similar to a Wiffle ball)
- The old badminton net
With these mismatched items, they set out to create a game that everyone could play. They started by lowering the badminton net to about waist height. The ping-pong paddles, while not ideal for hitting a perforated plastic ball, added an element of challenge and unpredictability to the game.
The families began to play, making up rules as they went along. They found that the plastic ball bounced well on the asphalt surface of the badminton court, and the lower net allowed for exciting volleys. The small court size meant that players of all ages could participate without needing to cover too much ground.
As they played, they refined the rules, taking elements from badminton, tennis, and table tennis. They discovered that allowing the ball to bounce once on each side before volleys created a more strategic and enjoyable game. The non-volley zone near the net (later dubbed “the kitchen”) was established to prevent players from spiking the ball and dominating play.
What started as a way to combat boredom quickly became an addictive new game. The families played all weekend, and by the time Monday rolled around, pickleball – though it didn’t have its name yet – was born.
This moment of creative problem-solving on a summer afternoon laid the foundation for a sport that would eventually be played by millions. From these humble beginnings on Bainbridge Island, pickleball would grow, evolve, and spread across the nation and beyond, forever changing the landscape of recreational sports.
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The Development of Pickleball
Refining the Rules
The birth of pickleball was just the beginning. In the weeks and months following that fateful summer weekend in 1965, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum set about refining the rules of their new creation. They wanted to ensure that the game remained challenging enough to be interesting for adults, yet simple enough for children to enjoy.
One of the first major decisions was to keep the net low, at 36 inches on the ends and 34 inches in the middle. This height, similar to a tennis net, allowed for exciting volleys while still making the game accessible to players of all heights.
The creators also formalized the non-volley zone, extending seven feet from each side of the net. This area, which would later become known as “the kitchen,” added a strategic element to the game. Players couldn’t volley the ball while standing in this zone, preventing aggressive smashes at the net and encouraging more finesse play.
They established that serves must be made underhand and diagonally across the court, similar to tennis but with a unique pickleball twist. The double-bounce rule was also implemented, requiring the ball to bounce once on each side before volleys were allowed. This rule helped to neutralize the serving advantage and extend rallies.
As they played more, they continually tweaked and adjusted the rules, always with the goal of maintaining the game’s unique character and ensuring it was fun for all ages.
Creating a Permanent Court
With the rules taking shape, the next step was to create a permanent playing area. Pritchard’s backyard became the testing ground for this new sport. They marked out a court with the exact dimensions we know today: 20 feet wide and 44 feet long.
The surface of choice was asphalt, which provided a consistent bounce for the plastic ball. They painted lines to clearly define the playing area, including the non-volley zone and service courts. The permanent net was set up, and suddenly, pickleball had a home.
This backyard court became the laboratory where the game continued to evolve. The creators and their families spent countless hours on this court, playing, observing, and refining their creation.
Spreading the Game
As the Pritchards, Bells, and McCallums continued to play and enjoy their new game, word began to spread. Neighbors and friends were intrigued by the sounds of laughter and the unique “pop” of the plastic ball coming from the Pritchard backyard.
Invitations were extended, and soon, more and more people were being introduced to pickleball. The game’s appeal was immediate. Its blend of familiar elements from other racquet sports, combined with its unique rules and equipment, made it instantly engaging.
The creators began bringing paddles and balls to neighborhood gatherings and local events. They taught the game to anyone who was interested, and the circle of pickleball players began to grow. The ease of learning the basic rules, combined with the challenge of mastering the strategic elements, made pickleball addictive.
As summer turned to fall and then winter, the game moved indoors. The creators found that pickleball could be played just as easily in gymnasiums and community centers, making it a year-round activity. This versatility would prove crucial in the game’s future spread across different regions and climates.
Word of mouth became the primary driver of pickleball’s early growth. Players who learned the game on Bainbridge Island took it with them when they traveled or moved, introducing pickleball to new communities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
By the end of the 1960s, what had started as a backyard diversion had begun to take on a life of its own. Pickleball was no longer just a game played by a few families on Bainbridge Island – it was becoming a movement, driven by the passion of its early adopters and the inherent fun of the sport itself.
The stage was set for pickleball’s expansion beyond its birthplace, and the journey from backyard game to national phenomenon had begun.
The Unusual Name of Pickleball
One of the most intriguing aspects of pickleball isn’t just the game itself, but its quirky name. The origin of the term “pickleball” has been a subject of debate and speculation for years, adding an extra layer of charm to the sport’s already fascinating history. Let’s explore the two main theories behind the name and the controversy that surrounds them.
The Pickles Theory: A Tail-Wagging Tale
The most popular and widely circulated explanation for the name “pickleball” involves a dog named Pickles. According to this version of events, the Pritchards had a family dog, a cockapoo named Pickles, who would chase after the ball and run off with it while the families were playing the new game.
As the story goes, whenever the ball would roll off the court or get lost in the bushes, someone would invariably shout, “Where’s the pickle?” or “Get the pickle!” This happened so frequently that the players started referring to the game as “pickle’s ball,” which eventually morphed into “pickleball.”
This charming origin story has been repeated in countless articles, interviews, and even in official pickleball literature. It paints a vivid picture of a beloved family pet becoming an integral part of the game’s lore, adding a touch of whimsy to the sport’s history.
The Rowing Connection: Joan Pritchard’s Alternative Explanation
However, there’s another, less known explanation for the name that comes from Joan Pritchard, Joel Pritchard’s wife. According to Joan, the name has nothing to do with a dog, but rather comes from her background in competitive rowing.
In rowing, a “pickle boat” is the last boat to finish in a race, often crewed by oarsmen assembled from the leftovers of other boats. Joan said she started calling the game pickleball because “the combination of different sports reminded me of the pickle boat in crew where oarsmen were chosen from the leftovers of other boats.”
This explanation ties the name to the game’s hybrid nature, combining elements from various other sports in a way similar to how a pickle boat combines leftover rowers.
The Great Pickleball Debate
The existence of these two competing explanations has led to ongoing debate and controversy within the pickleball community. Supporters of each theory have argued passionately for their preferred version of events.
Adding to the confusion, different members of the founding families have given conflicting accounts over the years. Some have supported the dog story, while others have backed Joan Pritchard’s rowing explanation.
The debate took an interesting turn when it was revealed that the Pritchards didn’t actually get their dog Pickles until a couple of years after the game was invented. This led some to speculate that perhaps the dog was named after the game, rather than the other way around.
However, supporters of the Pickles theory argue that even if the specific dog named Pickles came later, the name could have been inspired by the concept of a dog chasing the ball, with “Pickles” being a generic name used in the early days of the game.
The controversy has become such a part of pickleball culture that it’s now almost as much a tradition as the game itself. Players and enthusiasts often enjoy debating the merits of each explanation, adding to the rich tapestry of the sport’s folklore.
Embracing the Mystery
In the end, the true origin of the name “pickleball” may remain a mystery. But perhaps that’s part of the charm. The ambiguity allows for multiple stories to coexist, each adding its own flavor to the rich history of the game.
Whether named after a mischievous dog or inspired by the world of competitive rowing, one thing is clear: the unusual name “pickleball” has become an integral part of the sport’s identity. It sparks curiosity, invites conversation, and adds an extra layer of intrigue to this already captivating game.
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, the debate over its name serves as a reminder of the game’s humble and somewhat haphazard beginnings. It’s a testament to how a simple backyard game, with an quirky name, can evolve into a beloved sport played by millions around the world.
Early Growth and Expansion of Pickleball
After its invention in 1965, pickleball began to spread beyond the confines of Bainbridge Island. The following decade saw several key developments that would lay the foundation for the sport’s future growth and popularity.
The First Permanent Pickleball Court (1967)
In 1967, just two years after the game’s invention, the first permanent pickleball court was constructed. This milestone occurred in the backyard of Joel Pritchard’s neighbor, Bob O’Brian. The creation of this dedicated court marked a significant step in pickleball’s evolution from a casual backyard game to a more formalized sport.
The permanent court allowed for consistent play and helped to standardize the game’s dimensions and rules. It also served as a model for future courts, providing a template that could be replicated in other locations. This consistency was crucial for the sport’s growth, as it meant that players could enjoy the same experience regardless of where they played.
The establishment of this first permanent court also symbolized the creators’ commitment to the game. It was a physical manifestation of their belief that pickleball had long-term potential and was worth investing in.
Incorporation of Pickleball Inc. (1972)
As interest in pickleball continued to grow, the game’s creators recognized the need for a more formal structure to guide its development. In 1972, Joel Pritchard, along with Barney McCallum and several others, took a significant step by incorporating Pickleball Inc.
The formation of this corporation served several important purposes:
- Standardization: Pickleball Inc. worked to establish and maintain official rules and equipment standards. This ensured that the game would be played consistently across different locations.
- Equipment Production: The corporation began producing and selling pickleball equipment, including paddles and balls. This made it easier for new players and communities to access the necessary gear to play the game.
- Promotion: Pickleball Inc. took on the role of promoting the sport, helping to spread awareness and encourage adoption in new areas.
- Legal Protection: Incorporation provided legal protection for the game’s name and concept, helping to preserve its integrity as it grew.
The creation of Pickleball Inc. was a crucial step in the sport’s development, providing the organizational structure necessary for sustained growth and expansion.
The First Pickleball Tournament (1976)
Another major milestone in pickleball’s early history came in 1976 with the organization of the first official pickleball tournament. Held at South Center Athletic Club in Tukwila, Washington, this event marked pickleball’s debut as a competitive sport.
The tournament attracted players from various parts of Washington state and even a few from other regions. It featured both singles and doubles competitions, showcasing the versatility of the game.
This inaugural tournament was significant for several reasons:
- Competitive Framework: It established a framework for competitive play, demonstrating how pickleball could be organized into tournament formats.
- Skill Showcase: The tournament allowed skilled players to showcase their abilities, inspiring others and raising the overall level of play.
- Community Building: It brought together pickleball enthusiasts from different areas, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among players.
- Media Attention: The tournament attracted local media coverage, helping to spread awareness of the sport to a wider audience.
- Future Growth: The success of this first tournament paved the way for future events, setting a precedent for organized pickleball competitions.
The 1976 tournament was just the beginning. In the years that followed, pickleball tournaments would become increasingly common and popular, eventually leading to the establishment of national and international championships.
These early developments – the first permanent court, the incorporation of Pickleball Inc., and the inaugural tournament – were crucial in pickleball’s journey from a backyard pastime to an organized sport. They provided the structure, equipment, and competitive framework necessary for pickleball to expand beyond its origins on Bainbridge Island and begin its journey towards becoming a nationwide phenomenon.
As the 1970s drew to a close, pickleball had established a solid foundation. The stage was set for the explosive growth that would occur in the decades to follow, as the sport began to capture the hearts of players across the United States and beyond.
Modern Popularity of Pickleball
While pickleball’s early years laid a solid foundation, the sport’s explosive growth and widespread popularity is a more recent phenomenon. The 21st century has seen pickleball transform from a niche activity to one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Let’s explore some key milestones in pickleball’s journey to mainstream recognition.
Formation of USA Pickleball Association (2005)
A pivotal moment in pickleball’s modern history came in 2005 with the formation of the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA). This organization, which later simplified its name to USA Pickleball, was established to promote the growth and development of pickleball throughout the United States.
The creation of USA Pickleball marked a significant step in the sport’s evolution, providing:
- Centralized Governance: USA Pickleball became the official governing body for the sport in the United States, providing leadership and direction for its growth.
- Standardized Rules: The association took on the responsibility of maintaining and updating the official rulebook, ensuring consistency across the country.
- Tournament Sanctioning: USA Pickleball began sanctioning official tournaments, lending credibility and structure to competitive play.
- Player Ratings: The organization developed a rating system for players, allowing for fair competition and skill-based matchmaking.
- Advocacy: USA Pickleball worked to promote the sport, engaging with parks and recreation departments, community centers, and other organizations to increase pickleball’s presence nationwide.
The formation of USA Pickleball provided the organizational structure necessary for the sport’s rapid expansion in the years that followed.
Inclusion in the National Senior Games (2016)
Another major milestone in pickleball’s rise to prominence was its inclusion in the National Senior Games in 2016. The National Senior Games, also known as the Senior Olympics, is a large multi-sport event for athletes aged 50 and older.
The addition of pickleball to this prestigious event was significant for several reasons:
- Recognition: It represented official recognition of pickleball as a legitimate competitive sport at a national level.
- Exposure: The National Senior Games provided a platform for pickleball to be showcased to a wide audience, including both participants and spectators.
- Demographics: It highlighted pickleball’s particular appeal to older adults, a demographic that has played a crucial role in the sport’s growth.
- Competitive Opportunities: The inclusion opened up new competitive opportunities for senior pickleball players, further fueling interest in the sport.
This event marked a turning point in pickleball’s journey from a recreational activity to a recognized competitive sport, paving the way for its inclusion in other multi-sport events and increasing its visibility on the national stage.
Recent Surge in Popularity, Especially During the COVID-19 Pandemic
While pickleball had been steadily growing in popularity for years, the sport experienced an unprecedented surge in interest during the COVID-19 pandemic, starting in 2020. Several factors contributed to this boom:
- Social Distancing Friendly: Pickleball’s court size and nature of play made it easier to maintain social distancing compared to many other sports.
- Outdoor Activity: As an outdoor sport, pickleball provided a safer option for physical activity during the pandemic.
- Accessibility: The ease of learning pickleball made it attractive to people looking for new hobbies during lockdowns.
- Intergenerational Appeal: Families found in pickleball a sport that players of different ages and skill levels could enjoy together.
- Mental Health Benefits: The social aspect of pickleball provided a much-needed sense of community and connection during a time of isolation.
The numbers tell the story of pickleball’s explosive growth:
Pickleball participation growth:
- According to the 2024 Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) Topline Participation Report, pickleball grew by 51.8% from 2022 to 2023
- This is a significant increase from the previously reported 21.3% growth from 2019 to 2020.
The number of pickleball players in the United States has grown substantially:
- 2021: 4.82 million players
- 2022: 8.9 million players
- 2023: 13.6 million players
This shows a dramatic increase from the 4.8 million players reported in 2021.
Places to play pickleball:
- As of early 2024, there are 11,885 known locations to play pickleball in the USA
- This is a significant increase from the 9,500 locations reported in 2021. Additionally, the total number of known courts has reached 50,003, with over 1,000 new locations added to the database in 2023.
This surge in popularity has continued beyond the pandemic, with pickleball maintaining its status as one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Major sports figures and celebrities have embraced the game, leading to increased media coverage and investment in professional pickleball leagues.
The modern popularity of pickleball is a testament to the sport’s broad appeal. From its humble beginnings on Bainbridge Island to its current status as a nationwide phenomenon, pickleball has come a long way. With its combination of accessibility, social appeal, and competitive potential, pickleball seems poised to continue its growth trajectory well into the future.
As more people discover the joy of pickleball, the sport that once seemed destined to remain a quirky regional pastime has firmly established itself in the mainstream of American sports culture.
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Impact and Cultural Significance of Pickleball
As pickleball has grown from a backyard game to a nationwide phenomenon, its impact has extended far beyond the confines of the court. The sport has woven itself into the fabric of communities across America, influencing social dynamics, physical fitness trends, and even urban planning. Let’s explore the various ways pickleball has made its mark on modern culture.
Appeal Across Age Groups
One of pickleball’s most remarkable features is its broad demographic appeal. Unlike many sports that cater primarily to specific age groups, pickleball has found enthusiasts across multiple generations.
- Seniors: Pickleball initially gained traction among older adults, particularly in retirement communities. Its low-impact nature, smaller court size, and emphasis on strategy over pure athleticism made it an ideal activity for seniors looking to stay active.
- Middle-aged Adults: As the sport grew, it attracted middle-aged players who appreciated the social aspects and the opportunity for friendly competition without the physical demands of more intense sports.
- Young Adults: In recent years, pickleball has seen a surge in popularity among younger players. The fast-paced nature of the game, combined with the relatively low barrier to entry, has made it attractive to millennials and Gen Z players.
- Children and Teens: Schools and community centers have begun incorporating pickleball into their physical education programs, introducing the sport to younger generations.
This multigenerational appeal has several significant impacts:
- It fosters intergenerational interaction, with grandparents often playing alongside their grandchildren.
- It provides a common ground for family activities, strengthening familial bonds.
- It creates diverse communities of players, breaking down age-related social barriers.
Community-Building Aspects of the Sport
Pickleball has proven to be more than just a game; it’s a powerful tool for community building. The sport’s social nature and inclusive atmosphere have led to the formation of tight-knit pickleball communities across the country.
- Social Connections: Pickleball courts have become hubs of social activity, where players form new friendships and strengthen existing ones.
- Inclusive Atmosphere: The sport’s welcoming culture encourages players of all skill levels to participate, fostering a sense of belonging.
- Community Events: Pickleball tournaments and social gatherings have become popular community events, bringing together players and spectators alike.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Many pickleball communities rely on volunteers for organization and instruction, providing opportunities for community service.
- Economic Impact: The growth of pickleball has led to the development of dedicated facilities and the emergence of pickleball-related businesses, contributing to local economies.
The community-building power of pickleball has been particularly evident in:
- Retirement communities, where it has become a central social activity.
- Urban areas, where it has transformed underused spaces into vibrant gathering spots.
- Suburban neighborhoods, where it has created new connections among residents.
Comparison to Other Racquet Sports
While pickleball shares some similarities with other racquet sports, it has carved out a unique niche in the sporting landscape. Here’s how it compares to some of its cousins:
Tennis:
- Court Size: Pickleball courts are significantly smaller, making the game more accessible and less physically demanding.
- Equipment: Pickleball uses solid paddles and a plastic ball, as opposed to strung racquets and felt-covered balls in tennis.
- Scoring: Pickleball has a unique scoring system and shorter games, allowing for quicker play and more frequent rotation of players.
Badminton:
- Net Height: Pickleball nets are lower, changing the dynamics of play.
- Shuttlecock vs. Ball: The use of a ball in pickleball creates different flight characteristics compared to badminton’s shuttlecock.
- Court Surface: Pickleball is typically played on hard courts, while badminton is often played on indoor wood or synthetic surfaces.
Table Tennis:
- Playing Surface: Pickleball is played on a large court rather than a table, requiring more movement from players.
- Doubles Play: Pickleball’s rules for doubles play, including the “kitchen” (non-volley zone), create unique strategic elements not found in table tennis.
Paddle Tennis:
- Ball Type: Pickleball uses a plastic ball with holes, while paddle tennis uses a depressurized tennis ball.
- Serving: Pickleball requires underhand serves, whereas paddle tennis allows overhand serves.
Compared to these sports, pickleball offers:
- Lower physical barriers to entry
- A strong emphasis on strategy and finesse
- A social atmosphere that often extends beyond the game itself
- Quicker learning curve for beginners
The unique combination of elements from various racquet sports, along with its own distinctive features, has allowed pickleball to attract players who might have found other racquet sports too challenging or intimidating.
Conclusion: Pickleball’s Remarkable Journey and Bright Future
As we reach the end of our exploration into the fascinating history and cultural impact of pickleball, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of this unique sport.
From Backyard Pastime to Global Phenomenon
Pickleball’s story is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and the simple joy of play. What began as an improvised game on a lazy summer afternoon in 1965 has evolved into one of the fastest-growing sports in America and beyond.
Let’s recap the key milestones in pickleball’s journey:
- Humble Beginnings: Born on Bainbridge Island, Washington, as a solution to family boredom.
- Early Development: The creation of the first permanent court in 1967 and the incorporation of Pickleball Inc. in 1972.
- Competitive Growth: The first official tournament in 1976 marked pickleball’s debut as a competitive sport.
- Organizational Structure: The formation of the USA Pickleball Association in 2005 provided crucial governance and standardization.
- Mainstream Recognition: Inclusion in the National Senior Games in 2016 signaled pickleball’s arrival on the national stage.
- Explosive Popularity: A surge in interest during the COVID-19 pandemic cemented pickleball’s place in popular culture.
This journey from a backyard game to a sport played by millions is a uniquely American success story, blending innovation, grassroots growth, and broad appeal.
Looking to the Future of Pickleball
As we look ahead, all signs point to a bright future for pickleball. The sport’s trajectory suggests continued growth and evolution in several areas:
- Mainstream Sports Status: With increasing media coverage and celebrity involvement, pickleball is poised to cement its place as a mainstream sport.
- Professional Leagues: The development of professional pickleball leagues and tours is likely to continue, potentially leading to larger purses and more extensive broadcast coverage.
- Olympic Aspirations: While not currently an Olympic sport, there’s growing discussion about pickleball’s potential inclusion in future Olympic Games.
- Technological Advancements: As the sport grows, we can expect to see continued innovation in equipment design and performance analytics.
- Youth Engagement: With more schools incorporating pickleball into their physical education programs, the sport is likely to see increased participation among younger players.
- Global Expansion: While currently most popular in North America, pickleball has the potential for significant international growth.
- Community Impact: The sport’s role in community building and promoting active lifestyles is likely to be increasingly recognized by urban planners and health advocates.
- Adaptive Pickleball: There’s potential for growth in adaptive pickleball programs, making the sport even more inclusive for players with disabilities.
As pickleball continues to evolve, it will likely face challenges, including potential growing pains as it transitions from a niche activity to a major sport. However, the strong community foundation and broad appeal that have characterized pickleball’s growth so far suggest that the sport is well-positioned to navigate these challenges.
In conclusion, pickleball’s journey from a backyard game to a beloved sport played by millions is a remarkable story of organic growth, community building, and the universal appeal of accessible, enjoyable physical activity. As it moves into the future, pickleball seems poised not just to continue its growth, but to make an increasingly significant impact on sports culture, community life, and public health. The next chapter in pickleball’s story promises to be just as fascinating as its origin, and it’s one that will be written by the millions of players who have fallen in love with this unique and engaging sport.