Demystifying the Non-Volley Zone in Pickleball
Today, we're diving into a common kitchen quandary that often leaves players scratching their heads. Let's serve up some clarity, shall we?
Q: Picture this: Player A is hanging out in the kitchen (aka the Non-Volley Zone) and sends a dink sailing over the net after the ball bounces. Player B returns the ball but cries foul, claiming the point because Player A is still in the NVZ. What's the verdict? Is this actually a NVZ no-no?
A: Great question! This scenario trips up many players, but fear not – we've got the official scoop for you.
Drumroll, please... This is NOT a Non-Volley Zone infraction!
I know, I know, it might seem counterintuitive, but let's break it down with some rulebook wisdom.
According to our friends at USA Pickleball (USAP), specifically Rule 9.B of the 2023 rulebook:
"It is a fault if a player volleying the ball touches, with the player's paddle or body, the non-volley zone or touches any non-volley line."
The secret sauce here is the word "volleying." In pickleball lingo, a volley means hitting the ball before it bounces. In our scenario, Player A hit the ball after it bounced, so they're in the clear!
Think of it this way: The kitchen isn't a "no entry" zone – it's more like a "no fly" zone. You can hang out there all you want, as long as you're not smacking airborne pickleballs.
So, to our friend Player B: Nice try, but the rally continues! Player A can chill in the kitchen as long as they like after that dink. No need to dash out before the next shot.
Now, let’s address the follow-up question about the consequences of Player B incorrectly stopping play.
Q: Since Player B stopped the play by incorrectly calling a fault, are there any rules-based consequences? Does this result in a side-out or a point for the opposing team?
A: This situation falls under what's often called an "inadvertent stoppage of play" in pickleball. Here's the official stance based on the USAP rulebook:
According to Rule 3.A.19, which defines a fault:
"Stopping play for any reason while the ball is still in play. For example, calling a fault on an opponent that is not confirmed, or a fault called on their own team that did not occur."
This means that Player B, by incorrectly calling a fault and stopping play, has actually committed a fault themselves.
The consequences of this fault depend on which team was serving:
1. If Player B's team was serving, it results in a side-out. The serve would go to the next player, either the second server or the opposing team (Player A's team).
2. If Player A's team was serving, Player A's team would win a point and retain the serve.
Remember, picklers: The NVZ rule is there to keep us from turning into net-hugging smash monsters, not to cramp our dinking style!
Pickleball relies heavily on good sportsmanship and fair play. It's always best to let the play continue if you're unsure about a rule, and discuss any concerns between points or during timeouts.
Got any other pickleball puzzlers you'd like us to tackle? We're always here to help keep your game on point and rule-book friendly!
Email your questions to play@southernpickleballacademy.org.
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