Many facilities have a local rule about which side of the court serves first. But when we play in a tournament we have to make a decision. Should we pick serve or side?
personal preference
For many players, it comes down to personal preference. I recall an old tennis partner who always wanted to return serve first. Her theory was that if we broke their serve right off the bat, we had a huge advantage. Some pickleball players apply the same theory to their serve or side decision. And as the start serving team will only have one player serve at the beginning of the game, I can understand their rationale.
There really is no simple answer. If you have a clear personal preference that may be the best call.
The Third Game
However, if you don’t have a strong preference or if the environment may affect your ability to play your best there is more to consider. When playing outdoors, wind and sun can definitely impact our play. When playing singles, I prefer to have the wind helping me. Others prefer playing into the wind…again this is personal preference. Early in the day, the rising sun can be blinding. I have even played in indoor facilities where the side mattered. I recall one facility where the courts ran back to back. When I was looking at the wall directly behind the court, I saw the ball and the court more clearly than when I had to look at the side with another court behind it.
When environmental factors must be considered, most people will select the side that provides the greatest advantage in the third game…and particularly in the latter half of the third game. Remember, you will switch side with your opponent after one team earns six points. If you want to end the game on your preferred side you would select the less preferable side when you begin the game.
- First Game: Side A
- Second Game: Side B
- Start of Third Game: Side A
- Third Game After Six Points: Side B
Not Black or White
Like so many things in pickleball, there is not always one correct answer to the question of serve or side. Anything that makes us feel comfortable on the court will help us play. Have an open mind…and play your best.
