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Kerala Cultural Society of Metropolitan Washington (KCSMW)
The Kerala Cultural Society of Metropolitan Washington (KCSMW) proudly presents the 2026 Pickleball Tournament. Players of all experience levels are welcome.
Teams must consist of two players.
Both players must be of Kerala origin.
Doubles format only; no singles.
Verification may be requested.
Registration must be completed on the KCSMW website: https://kcsmw.org/event/pickleball-tournament/
Each player must register separately.
$25 for a single category and $40 for two categories.
Organizers may adjust deadlines or categories based on participation.
Men’s Doubles
Women’s Doubles
Mixed Doubles
*Used for grouping and competitive balance.
This event uses a modified house scoring format.
Single game to 11 points.
A 15-minute time limit will be applied.
Within the time limit, a team must win by at least 2 points. However, if time expires, the leading team, even by 1 point, will be declared the winner.
If the score is tied when time expires, the next point wins.
Single game to 11 points.
A 30-minute time limit will be applied.
Within the time limit, a team must win by at least 2 points. However, if time expires, the leading team, even by 1 point, will be declared the winner.
If the score is tied when time expires, the next point wins.
Best of 3 games to 11 points.
No time limit.
Players should be present and ready and must report at least 10 minutes before their scheduled start time for each game.
All players must complete a paper waiver form at the venue before their first game.
A coin toss will be held before each match.
The winner of the coin toss may choose either:
The serve must be made with an underhand stroke and an upward arc.
Contact with the ball must be below the waist.
The paddle head must be below the wrist at contact for a standard serve.
The serve must be made cross-court diagonally.
The 10-second serve rule applies after the score is called.
A drop serve is also permitted; in that case, the above serve-motion restrictions do not apply, but the ball cannot be thrown or propelled downward.
The serve must bounce before it is returned.
The return of serve must also bounce before it is played.
After those two bounces, either team may volley or play the ball off the bounce.
The non-volley zone extends 7 feet from the net on each side.
Players may not volley while standing in the kitchen or touching the kitchen line.
The momentum rule applies, so it is a fault if a player’s momentum carries them into the kitchen after a volley.
Players may enter the kitchen any time they are not volleying the ball.
Any ball touching a line is in, except on the serve, where a ball touching the kitchen line is a fault.
Players should only call a ball out when they can clearly see space between the ball and the line.
A ball landing out of bounds or failing to clear the net is a fault.
Volleying from the kitchen is a fault.
Playing the serve or return before the required bounce is a fault under the two-bounce rule.
A ball that bounces twice before being returned results in a fault.
Touching the net with the player, paddle, or clothing during play is a fault.
An illegal serve motion is a fault.
If the ball strikes a player or anything the player is wearing or carrying, it is a fault against that player or team.
In all other situations, the general USA pickleball rules will apply.
If the ball hits the roof, it is out.
In case of any conflict or dispute, the umpire’s decision is final.
All players and spectators must:
Show respect to referees, volunteers, opponents, and event staff.
Use clean language and avoid harassment, abuse, intimidation, or threats.
Play and behave safely at all times, and avoid dangerous or reckless actions that could harm others.
Unsportsmanlike conduct or unsafe behavior may result in:
A warning.
Point penalty.
Participation is at the player’s own risk.
KCSMW and the venue are not liable for personal injury, accident, theft, damage, or loss of property.
Players are responsible for their own hydration, stretching, warm-up, proper court footwear, and optional protective eyewear.
Advancement criteria (in order):
Match wins.
Score differential (total score earned minus total score allowed across all group matches).
Match reporting: Teams must report promptly to their assigned courts. Officials (or designated scorekeepers) will record and submit all match results immediately after each game for real-time standings updates.
Always exhibit good sportsmanship.
No portable speakers or music in the gym.
Never direct abuse at others.
Be mindful of noise levels.
Do not throw or mishandle equipment.
Respect players of all skill levels.
Stop playing in unsafe situations.
Warn adjacent courts if your ball rolls over.
Wear proper attire and non-marking shoes.
Eye protection is recommended.
Take responsibility for guests and family.
Do not play under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Check in at the front desk before entering the courts.
Bring your own paddles and balls.
Take all belongings when leaving.
No gum, food, or drink except water on the courts.
Food and drinks are allowed only in the café area.
Clean your area before leaving.
KCSMW Sports Committee – sports@kcsmw.org