On November 29th in Pickleball History, a momentous event took place that forever changed the landscape of the sport. In 2019, the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) officially recognized the "No Volley Zone" rule, commonly known as the "Kitchen Rule."

The No Volley Zone is the 7-foot area on either side of the net where players are not allowed to hit the ball out of the air. This rule was implemented to prevent players from dominating the game by smashing the ball from a close distance, making it nearly impossible for their opponents to return the shot.

The recognition of this rule by the IFP was a turning point for the sport, as it helped to level the playing field and make the game more accessible to players of all skill levels. It also added an extra layer of strategy to the game, as players now had to be more mindful of their positioning and shot selection when approaching the net.

To celebrate this historic moment, pickleball enthusiasts around the world organized "Kitchen Parties" on November 29th, where they gathered to play the game and share their love for the sport. Some even dressed up in chef's hats and aprons to fully embrace the spirit of the "Kitchen Rule."

The implementation of the No Volley Zone rule on this day in 2019 solidified pickleball's position as a legitimate and rapidly growing sport, attracting more players and fans than ever before. It's a day that will forever be remembered as a milestone in the history of pickleball.