Whether you are new to the sport or a pickleball veteran you will encounter times where you lose track of the score. If you follow these few simple tips it will go a long way to reducing the times where you question the score, a side out or which server is up…

1 : Remember the first server

When beginning a new game, it’s important to note the initial server. Even among professionals, the first server wears a wristband with an indicator to assist the referees in keeping score.

The first server of the game always starts on the right and will also always be serving on the right when the score is even (0,2,4,6,8,…) In contrast, the second server will serve on the right when the score is odd (1,3,5,7,9,…)

2 : Remember the side-out score

Take a mental note of the score each time a side-out occurs. Specifically the server score – I.e. the first value (2 in the example) in the score. 2-5-1

Let’s take a look at an example. Your team gets the ball back at 2-5-1 and Joe is serving as the first server. A few points later, the score is level at 5-5 and Joe is now on the left side of the court. Your team loses a hard fought point and your opponents calls for the ball, claiming a side-out.

Was that point, at 5-5, served by server 1 or 2. You recall the score at the previous side-out was 2-5-1 which had Joe on the right court, but now he is on the left.

Now you can explain with the details: “Joe was the first server of the match, we had 2 when we got the side out, so Joe was server number one at the side out and since Joe is now on the left court with an odd score 5, Joe had to have been the server. In other words it is now server two’s turn and the correct score is 5-5-2 and not a side-out”

You might need to read through these tips several times to internalize them but it is well worth the effort. Your partner and opponents will appreciate it. 😃

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a smooth and accurate scorekeeping process during pickleball matches, reducing confusion and promoting fair play.