Why is Pickleball Called Pickleball?

Blog Summary (What this post will cover):

• The true story of how pickleball got its name

• Common myths (Was it named after a dog or a boat?)

• The inventors of the game and their inspiration

• How the name contributed to its charm and popularity

• Fun trivia to impress your pickleball buddies

Why is Pickleball Called Pickleball?

One of the most common questions people ask is:
"Why do they call it pickleball?"
It’s a funny name, right? Not exactly what you'd expect for a fast-growing sport. But behind the oddball name lies a genuinely interesting and even adorable backstory that’s as charming as the sport itself.

So, why is pickleball called that? Let’s break it down.

How Did Pickleball Get Its Name?

The sport of pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by three dads: Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. Their kids were bored, and with limited sports gear on hand, they whipped up a new game using elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.

The rules were invented on the fly. The name, however? That’s where things get murky—and fun.

The Dog Named Pickles (Myth or Truth?)

You’ve probably heard that pickleball was named after a dog named Pickles. According to this story, Pickles loved to run off with the ball, so the game became known as “Pickle’s Ball,” which eventually turned into pickleball.

“Pickles would chase the ball around the yard and steal it. That’s how the name came about!” — Popular version of the story

Sounds adorable, right? Well, there’s a twist...

The "Pickle Boat" Theory — The Official Story

According to Joan Pritchard, Joel’s wife, pickleball was not named after the dog at all. Instead, she claimed she named the game after a "pickle boat" — a term from crew racing. A pickle boat is a boat made up of leftover rowers from other teams.

Since pickleball was created using leftover sports equipment and hybrid rules, the name felt fitting.

“It reminded me of the pickle boat in crew where oarsmen were chosen from the leftovers of other boats.” — Joan Pritchard

So, if you're wondering why is pickleball called pickleball officially—this is your answer.

Which Version is the Truth?

Here’s the timeline kicker: The dog named Pickles came AFTER the game was invented.
Yep — the family dog was adopted later and named after the sport, not the other way around. So the “dog theory” is just a lovable myth, while the pickle boat story is backed by the original creators.

Yet the dog story still spreads because, well… it's just too cute to let go of.

Why the Name “Pickleball” Works

Despite all the confusion about why pickleball is called pickleball, one thing is clear: the name worked.

• It’s weird enough to be memorable

• It sparks curiosity ("Why do they call it pickleball?")

• It reflects the fun and friendly nature of the game

Imagine if they had named it "Mini Tennis" or "Paddle Court" — not nearly as catchy, right?

Why People Are Still Asking: "Why Is Pickleball Called That?"

Even as pickleball explodes in popularity, millions of new players keep asking:

• Why is pickleball called that?

• What does pickleball mean?

• How did the game get its name?

The reason this question sticks around is because the name just sounds completely unrelated to sports. There’s no pickles involved, no vinegar, no jars—just a paddle, a net, and a plastic ball with holes in it.

And yet, this oddball name has become iconic.

Quick Fun Facts About the Name “Pickleball”

• The first official pickleball court was built in 1967.

• The USA Pickleball Association was established in 1984.

• “Pickles” the dog actually existed, but was named after the sport.

• The game’s name helped it go viral before viral was a thing.

Want to try pickleball? Start with a quality pickleball paddle from Pulse Pickleball — we ship Australia-wide.