Pickleball | City of Mill Creek

History

Local Origins

Pickleball was started in Washington on Bainbridge Island in 1965 by former State Representative Joel Pritchard and a couple of friends. The Pritchards originally played on a badminton court with ping-pong paddles and a whiffle ball.

The name came from Pritchard's wife, Joan. She named it after the pickle boat in a crew race; the crew of the pickle boat is chosen from those not selected as crew for other boats.

Pickleball is pieced together from other racket sports, as the pickle boat is a combination of remaining rowers.

Where to Play

The following locations offer Pickleball:

Heron Park & Highlands Park (Mill Creek City Parks)
Heatherwood Middle School tennis courts (4)
Evergreen Middle School tennis courts (8)
Gateway Middle School (2) (covered basketball courts)
The Ridge Activity Center (Maltby)
Woodinville Sports Club
Columbia Athletic Club (gymnasium)
YMCA Mill Creek

Find more places to play at places2play.org/state/washington

Classes & Court Locations

The City has tennis courts striped for Pickleball at Heron and Highlands Parks. The current configuration allows people to play pickleball using the existing tennis net at Heron Park and bring your own nets to Highlands Park (2 courts).

With the recent increase and attention on Pickleball, the City is now providing beginner and intermediate classes at Highlands Park. For info on these classes and information on Heron and Highlands Parks, visit the links below.

Recreation Programs and Classes Parks & Trails

Mill Creek Court Rules

City Pickleball Courts operate on a first come, first serve basis.
No lessons or league play unless previously authorized.
No chalk allowed on courts.
No glass, food, pets or alcohol allowed on court.
No skateboards, rollerblades, bicycles, scooters, etc., allowed on court.
No altering of tennis net.
Non-marking athletic shoes only.

Remember

Incoming players waiting to use a court must indicate they are waiting to use the court. When incoming players are waiting, active players must vacate courts after playing (30) minutes or play (1) game to 11, whichever comes first.
Court etiquette and good sportsmanship should prevail at all times.