PrimoPickleball Logo

Head Hunting Rule

In the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship, Celina Pickleball and PrimoPickleball are committed to maintaining the integrity of the game while prioritizing player safety. As such, intentional or reckless "head hunting" of an opponent above the shoulders is considered extremely unsportsmanlike conduct and is subject to the following enforcement:

  1. Any shot that directly strikes a player in the neck or head area between and above the shoulders is a fault.
    • The first such fault in a game is a loss of the point.
    • The second such fault in a game is a loss of the game.
    • The third such fault in a tournament or league event is a forfeit of all remaining games.
  2. Indirect strikes are not a fault.
    • If the ball hits the net tape or any other object before striking the player it will be considered an unfortunate accident and not reckless/dangerous play.
  3. A player intentionally making contact with the ball with their head is not a fault.
  4. Accumulation of head hunting faults is grounds for removal from a tournament or league at the director's discretion.

The victimized team has these options:

  1. Give the opposing team the point if you think the shot was unintentional and not reckless.
  2. Call it a fault and take the point for your team if you think the shot was intentional or reckless.
    • These faults should be reported to the scorekeeper for tracking, but you are not required to do so.
    • Perhaps the shot was overly aggressive and bordering on reckless, but not enough to warrant the additional penalty of counting it against the offender.
  3. The call made by the victimized team may not be argued or appealed.
    • The offending team may not claim that the ball did not actually strike their opponent above the shoulders.
    • Players are expected to be honest with every other call and this call is no exception.
  4. Re-playing the point is not an option.

Rationale and Enforcement

While the modern game has become faster and more aggressive, respect for opponents remains paramount. Players are encouraged to compete with intensity but must avoid endangering fellow competitors. This rule is designed to preserve both player safety and the integrity of competition, ensuring that pickleball remains a sport built on skill, strategy, and sportsmanship.