Why Is It Called Pickleball: Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, has a quirky name with two popular stories behind it. Many people wonder why it’s called “pickleball,” and the answers range from a beloved dog to a rowing term.
Story Behind Pickles the Dog
One popular account suggests that Pickles, the Pritchard family’s dog, inspired the name. However, the game’s creators clarified that Pickles was named after the sport, not the other way around. In the summer of 1965, when pickleball was invented, the Pritchards, Bells, and McCallums did not yet have Pickles.
It wasn’t until 1968 that Jeannie Pritchard and Paul Brown brought home two cockapoo puppies. The Pritchards named their pup Pickles, and true to her name, she became a star during games, eagerly chasing stray balls.
Joan’s Inspiration from Pickleboats
The second story comes from Joan Pritchard, who drew inspiration for the name from “pickleboats.” These boats refer to mismatched rowers used for local races. Joan was a former pickleboat rower at Marietta College, which had a strong crew program.
She felt that the name “pickleball” was fitting because the game blends elements from various racquet sports. Joan documented this story in articles for the Parkersburg News and Sentinel, and her children have supported this version in interviews.
Family Support for the Pickleboat Tale
Joan’s children, Frank Pritchard and Peggy Pritchard-Olson, have reinforced the story of how the game got its name. They emphasize that Joan’s background in rowing shaped the naming process. The connection to pickleboats highlights the creativity and fun that inspired the game.
Significance of Pickleball’s Name
The origin of the name “pickleball” reflects the game’s playful spirit and its roots in community and family. Whether through the charming story of Pickles the dog or Joan’s fond memories of pickleboats, the name adds to the sport’s uniqueness. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, these stories keep its history alive, drawing in new players and enthusiasts from all walks of life.
News in Brief: Why Is It Called Pickleball
The quirky name “pickleball” has two popular origin stories. One tale credits Pickles, a cockapoo owned by the Pritchard family, who was named after the sport. The second story comes from Joan Pritchard, inspired by “pickleboats,” mismatched rowers in local races.
Both accounts highlight the playful spirit of the game, showing its community roots. As pickleball gains popularity, these stories enrich its history and charm, attracting new players and enthusiasts.
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