Can't Seem to Find the Right Partner For You? We've Got Your Guide to Choosing Wisely

Just like in life, finding the perfect partner in pickleball can be challenging and take longer than you (or your parents) wish it would.

That's why we're here.

We'll help you find the perfect pickleball partner (you're on your own for finding your "life" partner) that complements your style and will help you play your absolute best in tourneys or serious rec play.

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What makes a great pickleball partner?

While everyone is different and who someone naturally will gel with can change based on personalities, playing styles, and skill level, there are some common traits you will want to look for in your next pickleball partner.

Some of these include:

Energy

Some people are naturally high or low energy, and you probably know which type you prefer. While a high-energy person can work with a low-energy one, if the idea of your teammate screaming or cheering after every point bothers you, then you may want to find someone more even keel.

Just don't get someone who will cause you to fall asleep mid-match.

Positivity level

Just as you want to find an energy you mesh well with, you'll also want to look for someone whose attitude isn't going to rub you the wrong way. For instance, you might prefer someone more "realistic" than overly optimistic because you just like practicality.

You may also want someone who will cheer for your team no matter the circumstances.

There is no wrong answer here – it's just about your likes and dislikes.

Competitiveness

Do you believe people can be too competitive? If so, then you'll want to avoid the person slamming their paddle against their thigh or cursing under their breath whenever someone (especially themselves) makes a terrible shot.

Of this entire list, matching your competitiveness is probably the biggest key to finding a great partner on the court.

Creativity

Do you prefer consistent play or flashy displays that will get the crowd cheering? Finding someone who complements your own game style will not only help you win more, but it will give your opponent fits when trying to exploit your team's weakness.

Vibes

Sometimes, two people just vibe and you can't necessarily figure out why. If you ever play with someone and you both just seem to "get it," then treasure that partnership and don't be afraid to invite them to be your new best pickleball friend.

How to assess your specific partner needs

To quote Dirty Harry (in Magnum Force), "A man's got to know his limitations."

While we have no proof that he was talking about DUPR or UTR-P scores, this saying applies to finding the perfect pickleball partner just the same.

When you want to find a partner that's just right for you, you'll want to consider your own strengths, weaknesses, attitude, and temperament.

Do you want to play with someone just like you or someone who is the Yin to your Yang?

To figure this out, think about this one thing:

How does someone handle losing?

Because when you're winning, everyone is happy – life is easy-peasy. It's when a player is losing when their true character comes out.

However, not only do you want to consider how a potential partner responds to adversity, but you also want to think through how you handle losing.

Are you a sore loser and want someone to call you out for being a baby? Or maybe you just get quiet, silently berating yourself, and need someone to help you get out of your head.

Knowing yourself and who you've played best with in the past – in any sport, not just pickleball – can help you determine whether or not someone is worth asking to be your partner on the court.

Tips for asking someone to be your partner

Currently, no partner-matching app lets you swipe left or right on a potential pickleball partner (though that could be a billion-dollar idea, just saying).

If you want someone to be your partner, you have to do it the old-fashioned way – stalk them until they feel sorry for you and eventually say yes to playing in a tournament.

Okay, maybe we shouldn't encourage stalking, but certainly, you can start by asking them.

"Hey, this was fun ..."

If you happen to play with someone during open play and it seems to go really well, a simple "Hey, this was fun. Do you ever play tournaments or want to play together regularly?" is a great way to start the conversation.

Suppose they say no or don't seem to be that into you; thank them for being awesome and walk away. This will leave the door open in the future and let them know they have at least one fan in the world.

"The [Enter local tournament name here] is coming up ..."

Another conversation starter that can lead to you finding a new partner is mentioning an upcoming tournament. This works especially well if you're both members of the same club the tournament will take place.

Chances are they will either be interested or not. Maybe they've been waiting for someone to ask them (like in our awkward middle school dance days), or they've already got a partner. Either way, it again opens the door for you and lets them know you're interested.

"Want to join my group?"

Every pickleball player wants to be part of a secret group of regular (preferably high-level) players. If you are already a part of a group (or want to start one), then that becomes your bargaining chip.

Invite them to whatever text, e-mail chain, or app you all use to discuss and schedule upcoming games. Be honest about the level of play and let them know if there are regular times you all like to play.

If they're a good fit, they'll join, and it'll be easier to ask them to be your partner in the future.

It's kind of the pickleball way of saying, "Can I have your number?" without, you know, being a creep about it.

Of course, if you're courting a mixed doubles partner, you should probably first make sure your life partner is cool with you getting their information.

But, hey, that's for you to figure out.