Safety Tips

For Beginners:

Even though pickleball may not seem physically demanding, don't be surprised by the new aches and pains you will experience as you learn the game. As with all new endeavors, ease into it. Don't ignore the cautions about overextending yourself. If the ball is out of your reach ,and certainly if it is out of bounds, don't push yourself to try and return it.

Remember, pickleball is first and foremost played for the fun of it. For most of us, there are no trophies or big money purses. Most new players in their enthusiasm will chase after balls that they cannot possibly return. As you progress in your skill development, you will quickly discover that much of the game is played at the Non Volley Line and involves bending and reaching, not running. You will also gain more strength and balance and soon instinctively know when a shot is not returnable. Playing pickleball is fun but, as with any physical activity, you need to exercise good judgement.

For Everyone:

Please note that there is an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) just outside of Court 4 at Texas Drive, in the Men's Restroom at Retreat courts, and in the main pavilion near the restrooms at the North Point courts. If you haven't taken the class on its use, please consider doing so. Here's a link to a Red Cross training video on AED use.

There is a first aid kit located on Court 5 at the Texas Drive courts, one in the common area at the Retreat courts, and one in the main pavilion at the North Point courts.

If you must call 911 for an emergency, the addresses you will need are: 1410 Sun City Boulevard for the Texas Drive courts, 1220 Cattleman Drive for the Retreat courts, and 700 CR 245 for the North Point courts. In case you forget, the address is posted on an emergency sign at the courts.
Fill out an Accident Report (paper versions are located in a binder in the First Aid Kit) and submit it to the SCTPC Secretary and also to a Amenity Center Monitor.
Remember to STAY_HYDRATED.

To help prevent injuries you should:

Before beginning any new sport discuss it with your doctor to be sure you are fit for participation. You may need to prepare by beginning a regular exercise routine first.

If you start feeling tired or dizzy take a break.

Remember that this is a game for fun and relaxation. Don’t get so caught up in it that your push yourself too hard.

Warm up and stretch before you begin playing.

Keep yourself hydrated, especially in hot weather. Drink plenty of water before, during and after playing.

Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect your skin.

Play within your abilities -- backing up or overreaching can lead to nasty falls on the hard court surface.

Communicate with your partner to avoid collisions. Call out “Yours!” or “Mine!” when it’s not obvious who should get it.

When your ball is heading toward another court call out “Ball on Court!” loudly to stop play on that court.

Stop play IMMEDIATELY when you hear “Ball on Court!”. Stepping on a stray ball can lead to injury.

Wear quality court shoes for your foot type (i.e., good arch support, durable heel, proper sole contour and flexibility).

If you have already hurt yourself playing pickleball or another sport, make sure you recover completely before you start up again.