Can We Talk About Some Weird Pickleball Habits?

From apologizing too much to court politics and feel-good stories worth knowing.

Author

Empower Pickleball
January 15, 2026

At this point, my feed is basically wall-to-wall ALW and her latest brand deals. If that’s all you’re seeing too, you’re not alone.

Lucky for you, we’ve got plenty of other good stuff lined up. Smart tips, real conversations, and a few feel-good moments worth your scroll, all designed to make your time on the court a little better.

Oh, and if you missed Tuesday’s newsletter, here’s a fun one. If you follow us on Instagram and DM us “newsletter,” you might get randomly pickled for a little surprise. No pressure. Just saying.

TIPS & TRICKS

Can We Talk About How Often We Say “Sorry” on the Court?

There’s one word that shows up on pickleball courts everywhere. After missed dinks. Balls down the middle. Moments of hesitation.

“Sorry.” It’s usually automatic, meant to be polite, and rarely questioned. But in doubles, constant apologizing can quietly disrupt rhythm, shift confidence, and keep mistakes alive longer than they need to be.


💡 Why It Matters: What you say after a point affects how quickly you reset and how steady your partnership feels.

OPINIONS & INSIGHTS

Is Pickleball Worth Hurting Your Friendships?

Pickleball is supposed to be fun. And yet, anyone who plays regularly knows how quickly things can get complicated.

Missed shots turn personal. Partner choices sting. Court politics creep in. When winning, rankings, or status start mattering more than the people you’re playing with, it’s worth asking a hard question: is this still bringing joy, or is it starting to cost something else?


💡 Why It Matters: You’ll forget most wins. You won’t forget how someone treated you, and no game is worth damaging a relationship.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Where Pickleball in India Is Opening Doors

Pickleball’s growth in India is taking a meaningful turn. Earlier this year, students from a school for deaf and differently abled youth were officially registered into the global pickleball rating system, placing them alongside mainstream players for the first time.

Through adaptive coaching, sign-based communication, and a whole lot of creativity, these athletes built confidence, learned the game, and stepped into competitive play. It’s a powerful reminder of what happens when access and opportunity are intentional.


💡 Why It Matters: Inclusive pathways don’t just grow the game, they change who gets to belong in it.

  • Pickleball vs. Tennis Court Wars 🎾 More cities are converting tennis courts to fit multiple pickleball courts, sparking tension between the two communities. While the pace of conversions is slowing, the debate over shared space is far from over.

  • Pickleball Is Powering Pet Fundraisers 🐾 Women for Paws is using pickleball tournaments to raise money for pet medical emergencies. Their “Pickleball for Paws” efforts are gaining traction in South Florida and bringing players together for a cause that hits home.

  • Pickleball Boosts Energy on College Campuses 🧠 A new study out of Japan found that even one pickleball session helped first-year college students feel more energized. Researchers say that the sport’s accessibility and built-in connection make it a strong option for student mental health programs.

Game-Day Gear That Delivers

Centerline builds apparel made for the demands of pickleball. Breathable fabrics keep you cool during long rallies. GripTek® details help hold steady through fast hands and tough points. Fits are designed to move with you without getting in the way.

Snag 20% off by using the code EMPOWER20 at checkout, because the right gear actually makes a difference.

This Week on Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil

Gina and Neil are back with a brand-new episode that tackles one of the most awkward parts of the game: the apology.

From the “polite paddle raise” on a net cord to the horror of accidentally tagging your opponent (Gina shares a story about a throat shot that you have to hear to believe), they break down the unwritten rules of respect. Do you really need to say sorry for a gust of wind? Is it rude to celebrate a body shot?

This week, we’re settling the score on when to speak up and when to just play on.

📺 Watch it on YouTube
🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Why I Own Way Too Many Pairs of These Sunglasses

Okay, pickleball glasses are everywhere right now and yes, eye protection matters. But sometimes you just need affordable sunglasses that block that brutal overhead sun without looking like you’re gearing up for a lab experiment.

Knockaround sunglasses are under $60, actually work on court, and look just as good off it. I buy a pair every single time I see them at a tournament. Comfortable, lightweight, no glare drama, and cute enough for dinner, the beach, or a random Target run after open play.

Bonus: their newer lenses make certain colors pop in low light, don’t fog up, and don’t feel like overkill. Functional, stylish, affordable. No notes. I’d absolutely buy more.