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A pickleball game is played in Xinchang county, Shaoxing, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

The inaugural meeting of the Zhejiang Provincial Pickleball Committee recently convened in Xinchang county, Shaoxing.

With the dual mission of spicing up interest in pickleball while cultivating a sense of unity among enthusiasts, the gathering unveiled the framework of the committee and bestowed appointment letters to esteemed members.

Pickleball, a sport played with paddles and a ball, originated from Bainbridge Island near Seattle in the United States.

The sport combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton into a game where players hit a perforated plastic ball over a net with solid paddles. The name "pickleball" was derived from one of the inventors' dogs. During the early stages of development, the dog named Pickle would often chase after the ball.

The rules of pickleball are similar to those of tennis, but only the serving team can score points. Additionally, serves must be made underhand (below the waist). Both sides must let the ball bounce once on their own side before volleying it.

Zhejiang is witnessing a surge in the popularity of pickleball, with various regions competing to promote and spread the sport. Xinchang has already constructed eight high-standard professional pickleball courts.