One of the great things about playing Pickleball is the fact that it is a social game. Because partners are closer together on a Pickleball court, they talk to each other and often enter in some friendly banter back and forth.  How often have you hear one player say to another, "when are you going to get in the game?" or "are you having a seniors' hour?" 

Although the friendly jabs at each other is great, there is a need for serious communicate with your partner as well. Communication is even more important in recreational play where each game may involve a new partner. You may never have played with that person before or not very often. Start right from the beginning of the game by shaking hands and introducing yourself if you have not met the person before. If the person is new, that will make them feel more at ease.  Most important never criticize a partner, or try to instruct during a game.
 
It is a good idea to find out if one or both of you are left handed. If you do not realize your partner is left handed until well into a game, it may be too late to make adjustments. Depending on which side of the court you are on, you will end up with two forehands up the middle or two backhands. Some times experienced players will switch sides after the serve or return of serve in this scenario to insure they always have two forehands covering the middle.  I really do not recommend this strategy at anytime because players forget to return to their right court position before the next point is served and lose either the serve or point.
 
 Remember if your partner is playing the ball it is your job to watch the lines and communicate that the ball is out loud and clear. Yell as soon as your realize the ball is out. If you are not sure remember to yell, bounce it. Saying nothing, tells your partner he or she should be playing the ball.  When receiving serve, the partner standing a the NV-Line should turn sideways to call the ball in or out.
 
 
This brings up that "Indecision Line", my term for the centre line . Players should communicate early who is going to cover the shot down the middle. Yell, "mine" or "yours" as soon as you realize where the ball is going and the partner with the best position. The person on their forehand should be the automatic choice but communicate anyway so their is no indecision.
 
A lob over both partners' heads at the NV-line presents a problem. If it is over your head, it is often better for your partner to run diagonally back to get it and you move to cover the position they vacated. Always yell "switch" so your partner knows what you are doing because he or she is looking up at the ball and may not see you. This avoids leaving a side open and a possible collision if the partner tries to get back. Remember when you switch, you must return to your proper side before serving or it is loss of serve or if receiving loss of point.
Don't forget player etiquette requires that the server call out the score loud and clear.
Also, compliment a good play by not only your partner but the other team as well. Even if you are getting beaten by the other team, be gracious and give credit. They may be, " having a great game or a stronger team but appreciate their play. On the other hand, if the other partnership is struggling, remember, we all have good and bad days.
Pickleball Promoter says, "Pickleball is a social game. Joke and have fun. Communicate with your partner. After all, Pickleball is no Big Dill."