There's enough buzz surrounding pickleball now to trick the uninitiated into thinking it's only been around for a few years. Of course, true fans know that isn't true. And we have the pictures to prove it.
These images, sent to Sonoma County photographer Jim Johnson from a local OG pickleball player, tell an important story from the sport's early years.
Ah, yes, "Pickle-Ball"
This was several decades before the use of advanced paddle materials like carbon fiber or Kevlar; or even fiberglass, for that matter.
No honeycomb cores, no edge guards...and does that ball even have 26-40 holes? I'm pretty sure it doesn't.
Prepare for a smash
Clearly, someone on the right popped one up. In fairness, I imagine that's pretty easy to do when you're playing with wooden paddles and a modified wiffle ball.
But don't assume the game was primitive in the 70s...
Just look at these crossover steps!
We say: bring back this fashion. Imagine slicing a clean backhand while wearing a flannel.
James Ignatowich would be proud
Look at the guy in green. He's split-stepping, likely after movement, getting down low and readying himself for what seems to be a hard volley return.
What a low stance considering how far apart his feet are! We're impressed with his form.
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