The Two Types of Players in Pickleball (And Why Both Matter)

In just about every pickleball community, you’ll notice two broad types of players. There’s the "I want to grow and improve" crowd, and the "I’m just here to have fun" folks. Both bring something valuable to the court, and honestly, the game wouldn’t be the same without either.

Let’s take a closer look.

The growth-minded players are driven. They show up consistently, take feedback seriously, and are always working on something. They might stay after games to practice a missed shot or watch footage to fine-tune their game. Playing with them sharpens your own focus and effort. It's not about being the best, it's about pushing your limits.

Then there’s the more casual group, the social players. They’re a big reason why pickleball feels so inviting. These are the folks who keep things light, bring the jokes, and make sure no one takes themselves too seriously. Maybe they’re new to the sport, maybe they just don’t care about drilling. And that’s fine. Pickleball is a community game first. Not everyone is here to grind.

Still, there’s a balance when both mindsets respect each other. If you want to break into tougher games, a bit of consistent effort goes a long way. You don’t need to live at the courts, but showing that you care helps others feel good about including you. It's about effort, not perfection.

When you show that you're invested, even just a little, it builds trust. People start to see you as someone who respects the game and the group. That goes a long way in a sport where chemistry and flow matter. And honestly, it makes the games better for everyone.

I’ve been surprised more than once by players whose technique looked rough but who played with real smarts and grit. The ones who outthink, outwork, and just get it done. That kind of commitment tends to raise the level for everyone.

So here's the bottom line:

To the grinders, keep pushing. You make the game sharper and more exciting.

To the hobbyists, thanks for keeping it fun. If you ever decide to take things up a notch, there are people ready to help you get there.

The more you put into pickleball, the more it gives back.

In the end, let’s keep it competitive, welcoming, and always moving forward.

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