The Golden Pickle

Tournament Rules

Everything you need to know before you step on the court. When in doubt, ask. Good luck out there.

Quick reference

The short version

Format

Doubles

Teams of two will play others for the first round

Scoring

Games to 11, Win by 2

Standard rally scoring. Matches are best 2-out-of-3 games in the bracket. If third game must be played you will go to 7 win by 2

Conduct

Self-Officiated, Good Faith

Players call their own lines and faults. Play fair, speak up early on close calls, and ask if players can't agree.

Eligibility & Registration
  • Open to all skill levels, teams of two (doubles only).
  • Both players on a team must be registered and paid before their entry is considered complete.
  • Field is capped at 36 teams, first-come first-served, Andrews residents only.
  • Entry fee is $30 per team ($15 per player).
  • Substitutions for an injured/absent partner are allowed, must let us know before your first match.
Match Format
  • Bracket play: single-elimination, best 2-out-of-3 games to 11 (win by 2); a third game, if needed, may be played to 7 win by 2.
  • After first round is played and 14/28 teams remain, 2 random teams will recieve byes to the quarterfinals.
  • Standard pickleball serving and double-bounce rules apply.
  • Teams switch sides of the court after each game, players that won previous round start with serve.
  • A 2-minute warmup is allowed before each match if courts are available; matches will start promptly at their scheduled time regardless.
Equipment
  • Bring your own paddle. Balls will be provided at each court.
  • Sneakers and or outside shoes are reccomended.
Conduct & Sportsmanship
  • Matches are self-officiated. Call your own lines and faults honestly — when in doubt, the call favors the opponent.
  • If partners can't agree on a call, replay the point or ask.
  • Unsportsmanlike conduct, arguing, or abuse directed at other players may result in a warning or disqualification at the our discretion.
  • Be ready at your assigned court at your scheduled time. Times given on schedule are an estimate so please be there before your time — repeated late arrivals may result in a forfeit.
Weather & Rescheduling
  • The Golden Pickle is played rain or shine when safely possible. In case of unsafe weather, play will pause and resume once conditions clear.
  • If the tournament cannot be completed the same day, we will reschedule the tournament. If you can't play on the rescheduled day, you will be refunded.
  • Check the website for any last-minute schedule updates on tournament day.
Awards
  • Champions and runner-up teams will be recognized at the conclusion of the tournament.
  • Final standings will be posted on the Results page after the tournament wraps up.
Questions? Contact us!