Quick answers for the court.
The basics every visiting player asks about, plus an AI helper for anything else.
Common questions.
Written by FindADink. Club rules can differ, so ask the organiser if unsure.
What is the kitchen?
The non-volley zone: the 7-foot (2.13 m) area each side of the net. You can stand in it any time, but you cannot volley (hit the ball before it bounces) while touching it, including your follow-through.
What is the two-bounce rule?
After the serve, the receiving side must let the ball bounce, then the serving side must let the return bounce. After those two bounces, either side can volley.
How does scoring work?
Most social play uses side-out scoring to 11, win by 2. Only the serving side scores. In doubles the score is called as three numbers: your score, their score, then server 1 or 2. Some clubs use rally scoring, so ask.
How do I join a social session as a visitor?
Arrive a little early, introduce yourself to the organiser, pay any visitor fee, and ask how rotation works. Many clubs use paddle stacking: put your paddle in the queue and you play when it reaches the front.
What should I bring?
Your paddle, court shoes (not running shoes on indoor floors), water and the visitor fee. Clubs usually supply balls and nets; check the listing.
Ask the helper.
AI answer, may be wrong. Rules, etiquette and drills only. Don't include personal details. Questions aren't stored.