access Toolkit

Inclusive Pickleball Starts With You
Elevating pickleball through inclusion, connection, and the shared language of ASL.

The game gets better when everyone belongs. The tools listed here are practical, powerful actions that create a welcoming experience for Deaf and signing players, coaches, and fans.

Doodle of a hand crossing fingers next to a pickleball paddle and clock icon, symbolizing hopeful scheduling or wait time.

Before Every Event, Review the Toolkit Below

We’re here for you. Whether you’re planning a small event or a major tournament, we’ll help you take the next step toward inclusive play.

A bold black outline of a hand showing the number 1 in ASL, with the number 1 printed on the palm.

1) Ask About Accessibility During Registration

“Do you, or any friends or family attending, have a disability? Let us know how we can make your experience more inclusive?”

Knowing ahead of time allows you to plan for:

  • Translation and/or interpreting services
  • Captioning or printed materials
  • Seating with direct visual access

2) Learn Some Signs

Encourage your team to learn basic ASL signs like:

  • Pickleball
  • Happy
  • Water
  • Food
  • Help
  • Hurt
  • Medal
  • Congratulations

Want to learn? DPA can lead a brief Zoom or an in person session — just ask!

p.s. Have staff or volunteer who knows sign language? Connect them with the Deaf attendees!

A bold black outline of a hand showing the number 2 in ASL, with the number 2 printed on the palm.
A bold black outline of a hand showing the number 3 in ASL, with the number 3 printed on the palm.

3) Use Clear Communication

From announcements to score calls:

  • Referees and players can sign and say the score
  • Speak clearly, sign simply
  • Pause when needed — clarity is more important than speed

Free: Download the ASL 0–15 poster to post around your venue.

4) Offer Multiple Ways to Connect

Use text, paper, signs, or speech — just don’t rely on one.

  • Caption your loudspeaker messages
  • Provide QR codes linking to interpreters
  • Prepare and share printed scripted announcements

How to set up QR access for interpreters

Let sponsors and vendors know Deaf players may attend. Prep them to use gestures, write notes, or simply smile and text.

A bold black outline of a hand showing the number 4 in ASL, with the number 4 printed on the palm.
A bold black outline of a hand showing the number 5 in ASL, with the number 5 printed on the palm.

5) Always Assume Access

Even if no Deaf players register, Deaf fans, families, or hard-of-hearing participants may show up.

  • Text-based announcements
  • Clear visual signage
  • Inclusive medal ceremonies

Accessible events benefits everyone – not just Deaf people.