Pickleball Net Care 101

Hi all,

We regularly encounter nets that are damaged where the wooden or plastic post holding the center of the net meets the plastic strap along the top of the net. We have recently had to repair numerous nets, but these repairs are temporary. Some of you may even be a member of one of our unofficial duct tape crews (thank you!). We have asked the City if they can purchase new nets but their budget is extremely limited. 

There are a couple of things we can do to minimize damage to the nets.

1. Keep your paddle off the net: We have seen players at particularly discouraging moments in a match slam their paddles on top of the center post.  Not good for paddles or nets.  This stresses the net strap where it rests on the post and the wear and tear weakens the net at that point. 

2. Do not attach the center post Velcro through the net:  The center post of the net should be positioned between the net and the steel post insert at the base. (See photo.)  If the net is installed properly it will preserve the net and avoid undue wear and tear caused by the small Velcro strip.  Additionally, all Velcro tension straps at the far ends of the net should be loosened before inserting and removing the two side steel posts which support the net.  

(Article continued after photo.)

3. Don't lose or remove the plastic tip at the top of the center post: Most center posts have a small hard plastic tip.  It provides a cushion at the top of the post and helps prevent cutting into the net strapping at the top.  Please be aware of this and make an effort to ensure it is always attached to the center post. 

Thanks for adhering to these first aid measures for our nets.