Don’t Be That Guy at the Pickleball League

Sam-Luca Thifault
Mar 29
2 min read

Every pickleball league has a that guy. If you don’t know who it is… it might be you. Let’s review the top offenders to make sure you’re not unintentionally the most annoying person on the court.

🏛️ 1. The Rulebook Lawyer

Insists on pausing mid-game to quote obscure rules, usually prefaced with “ACTUALLY…”
Bonus points if they pull out their phone to look up the rule.
Solution: If you’re debating a rule during a rec game, maybe just… don’t? Play the point and Google it later.

🎤 2. The “Excuse Machine”

Before every point: “I haven’t played in a while.”
After every mistake: “Ugh, the sun was in my eyes.”
Solution: Just own it. We all whiff a shot now and then.

🧮 3. The Score Forgetter

“Wait, what’s the score?”
Every. Single. Point.
Pro tip: If you don’t want to be this guy, repeat the score before every serve—loudly and confidently.

💪 4. The Overly Intense Guy

Celebrates a little too hard after a point… in a casual rec game.
Yells “COME ON!!” after a dink.
Plays like his self-worth is on the line.
Solution: Dial it back. It’s pickleball, not war.

🎾 5. The Ball Hoarder

Has 5 balls in their bag but won’t share them.
Magically disappears when it’s time to retrieve a stray ball from the parking lot.
Solution: Be generous. Nobody likes a pickleball miser.

If You Recognize Yourself Here…

It’s not too late! With a little self-awareness (and fewer “COME ON!!” screams), you can still redeem yourself and avoid becoming that guy.

Which of these pickleball personalities have you encountered? Tag a friend (or subtly send them this article) if you recognize one of these players in your league!