Recreational Pickleball Honor System

In recreational pickleball, the honor system is the expectation that players will be honest, fair, and respectful of others, which upholds the integrity of the game. It is a foundational element of the sport's culture, especially in non-officiated, casual play.

Key principles of the honor system

In rec play, players are responsible for making calls on their own side of the court only. You are welcome to calmly voice your opinion (once), but if your opponents disagree, let it go.

For line calls

Line calls are perhaps the most prominent application of the honor system.

Call your own shots accurately. You should make the best possible judgment on whether a ball is in or out. If a ball is clearly out, you must call it.
Resolve doubt in favor of your opponents. If you are not 100% certain about an "out" call, you should give your opponents the benefit of the doubt and play the ball as "in".
Promptly correct your partner's wrong call. If your partner makes an incorrect line call, you should quickly overrule it. In doubles, if partners disagree on a call, the ball is considered "in".

For faults

Part of playing with integrity is holding yourself accountable for faults you commit, regardless of whether your opponents see them.

Admit your own faults. If you commit a fault, such as stepping on the Non-Volley Zone (kitchen) line while volleying or touching the ball with your body, you should call the fault on yourself.
Watch your feet. Be mindful of your foot placement, especially for service and Non-Volley Zone foot faults.

For court rotation and fair play

When courts are busy, the honor system applies to how players manage court time to ensure fairness for everyone waiting to play.

Respect the rotation system. Many courts use a paddle stacking system to organize the rotation of players. Honor the queue and don't try to jump ahead.
Avoid dominating courts. When others are waiting, play your single game to completion and then rotate off to allow new players on.
Mix up your partners. In open play, rotating through different players and skill levels keeps games interesting and inclusive for everyone.

For sportsmanship and courtesy

Good sportsmanship is a key part of the pickleball honor system, making the game enjoyable for all.

Introduce yourself. Be friendly and courteous to the players on your court.
No coaching. Do not give unsolicited advice to your partner or opponents.
Encourage beginners. In a recreational setting, avoid "picking on" less skilled players by hitting excessively at them.
Wait to cross courts. If you need to cross behind a court to get to another, wait for the point to finish before doing so.
Apologize when appropriate. Offer an apology if you accidentally hit someone with the ball.
Never retaliate. Physical violence of any kind, including intentionally targeting an opponent with a powerful shot, especially at their head, is extremely bad sportsmanship. If you are verbally or physically attacked, report the incident to the management of the venue at your earliest convenience. You are not obligated in any way to complete the game if you feel threatened. Rather than risk escalation, walk away from the game and, if necessary, leave the venue.