Turning a tennis court into a pickleball court can be a cost-effective way to create new playing spaces for the growing sport of pickleball. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you convert a tennis court into a pickleball court:
Measure and mark the pickleball court dimensions:
Pickleball court dimensions are 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. Using a measuring tape, mark the dimensions of the pickleball court on the tennis court surface. You may need chalk, painter’s tape, or temporary marking spray to mark these dimensions.
Align the pickleball court with the tennis court:
It’s best to align the pickleball court with the tennis court boundaries to minimize confusion. Use the tennis court’s baseline as the pickleball court’s baseline, and the tennis court’s singles sideline as the sideline for the pickleball court. This will help you make the most of the existing lines on the tennis court.
Mark the non-volley zone (kitchen):
The non-volley zone or kitchen in pickleball is a 7-foot area on both sides of the net. Measure and mark a line 7 feet from the net on each side, running parallel to the net and extending from sideline to sideline. Make sure the lines are clear and visible.
Adjust the net:
A pickleball net is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high at the center. If you’re using the existing tennis net, you’ll need to lower it to the correct height. You can do this by adjusting the net strap in the center to achieve a 34-inch height, and then using additional straps or ties to lower the net on the sidelines to 36 inches.
Create additional pickleball courts (optional):
Depending on the size of the tennis court, you may be able to fit two or even four pickleball courts on a single tennis court. If you choose to create additional courts, repeat the steps above for marking the court dimensions, aligning the courts, and adjusting the nets. Temporary portable nets can be used for the additional courts if necessary.
Use temporary or permanent lines:
For a temporary conversion, use chalk, painter’s tape, or temporary marking spray to create the lines. These options can be easily removed without damaging the tennis court surface. For a more permanent conversion, consider using specialized court paint to paint the new lines. Be sure to consult with the court owner or manager before making any permanent changes to the court.
Inform and educate players:
Make sure all players are aware of the new court layout and understand the differences between tennis and pickleball lines. Post signs or provide diagrams of the court layout to help players familiarize themselves with the new setup.
By following these steps, you can successfully convert a tennis court into a pickleball court, providing more opportunities for players to enjoy the sport.