Pickleball’s Origin Story

Pickleball was born in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington—just a short ferry ride from Seattle. It all started when three dads—Joel Pritchard, a congressman; Bill Bell, a successful businessman; and Barney McCallum, a family friend—were looking for a way to keep their kids entertained during a long, laid-back Pacific Northwest afternoon.

Armed with nothing but imagination and a few mismatched pieces of sporting equipment, they made do with what they had: a badminton court in the backyard, some ping-pong paddles, and a perforated plastic ball. They lowered the net, made up some simple rules, and before long, laughter was echoing through the trees. What they created wasn’t just a way to pass the time—it was the beginning of something much bigger.

As the days went on, the game evolved. Wooden paddles were handcrafted in garages. Rules were written down and refined. More neighbors joined in, kids and adults alike. What began as a casual backyard experiment quickly became a neighborhood favorite—and then a regional pastime.

Word spread. Courts started popping up across the Pacific Northwest. People loved that it was easy to learn, welcoming for all ages, and just plain fun. It didn’t take long before pickleball grew beyond Bainbridge Island, beyond Washington, and eventually, beyond borders.

Today, pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, with players of all backgrounds rallying together in parks, gyms, and driveways.

But at its heart, it’s still the same game born on a rainy afternoon in the PNW—a game about connection, laughter, and making the most of what you’ve got.

So when you pick up your paddle, you’re not just playing a game. You’re part of a legacy. A movement that started with three dads, some scrap equipment, and a whole lot of heart.

Get out there, enjoy the game, and keep the spirit of those original backyard adventures alive!

Rain City Paddle Co. 
Designed where it all began.