The rules
How to Play Mini Pickleball
All standard pickleball rules apply — with one game-changing twist.
The No Consecutive Volley Rule
A player or team cannot hit two volleys in a row. After hitting a volley, your next shot must be played after the ball bounces — a groundstroke.
Volley
Strike the ball before it bounces
Bounce
Let the ball bounce first
Groundstroke
Play the ball after the bounce
Volley allowed again
Back to the start of the cycle
Doubles: In doubles, this applies to the team as a whole. If either partner hits a volley, the team's next shot must bounce before being struck.
If a player or team hits a second consecutive volley, they immediately lose the rally.
Other Rules
Cross-court serve
The serve must be cross-court, just like traditional pickleball.
Stay in bounds
The ball must remain within the Mini Pickleball court lines at all times.
Standard rules apply
All other standard pickleball rules apply unless specifically modified for Mini Pickleball.
First to 11 wins
Games are played to 11 points.
The simple rule to remember