Deck Pickleball Has Arrived: A Fun, New Sport for Pickleball and Ping-Pong Players.

In the East Texas town of Tyler, in August of 2024, a new sport was born that would soon captivate both pickleball and table tennis enthusiasts alike. Its inventor, Jed Turman, was no stranger to the world of racquet sports. Growing up, Jed spent countless hours on the tennis courts, honing his skills and developing a deep love for the game. But as he grew older, his interests began to expand, and he found himself equally drawn to the fast-paced action of pickleball and the finesse required in table tennis. 

It was this dual passion that sparked the idea of something new—something that could bridge the gap between these two beloved sports. Jed envisioned a hybrid experience that would allow players to practice and improve their agility in both pickleball and table tennis. But how could he create a game that captured the essence of both? 

The answer came to him one day in his sister’s garage. With a vision in mind, Jed began custom-building the first prototype of what would become deck pickleball—a smaller, more versatile version of pickleball that could be played on a moveable “deck.” Unlike traditional pickleball, which required a concrete court, deck pickleball could be set up anywhere, much like a ping pong table. It was perfect for home play, especially for families like his sister’s, who wanted the thrill of pickleball without the hassle of driving to a dedicated court. 

With a vision in mind, the dimensions of an 8 ft x 11 ft deck were marked out, and the first prototype was built—20 inches off the ground, just high enough to offer a challenge but low enough to invite players of all ages. The equipment was downsized, but the intensity remained. The paddles were smaller, the ball more compact, yet the spirit of competition was bigger than ever. The first deck was modest, yet it proved to be a game-changer. Set up right in his sister’s garage, it quickly became a favorite pastime for her and her kids. Word began to spread, and soon, other pickleball players were eager to try this new hybrid sport. The game’s portability and adaptability made it an instant hit, especially among those who were already fans of traditional pickleball. 

Friends and family were the first to try this new game, and it didn’t take long for the excitement to spread. The game was fast, fun, and full of strategy, a perfect blend of agility and precision. What started as a simple experiment soon evolved into something much more—a game with the potential to bring people together, challenge their skills, and create unforgettable moments. 

Recognizing the potential of his invention, Jed knew he had to share it with the world. His next steps involved doing demos at pickleball clubs and facilities, showing players how deck pickleball could be a fun and dynamic addition to their repertoire. But Jed didn’t stop there. He also set his sights on manufacturing products specifically designed for deck pickleball, including the deck pickleball paddles, the official deck pickleball, and the deck itself. 

With a passion for the game and a commitment to growing this new sport, Jed Turman is ready to take deck pickleball to the next level. From its humble beginnings in a garage in Tyler, Texas, deck pickleball is poised to become a beloved sport for players of all ages and skill levels, combining the best elements of pickleball and table tennis into one exciting and versatile experience.