As you have probably heard, there are going to be a few rule changes in 2021.  There is a lot of talk about a couple which we'll try to explain. These have been decided upon by the USA Pickleball Rules Committee and I am not on that committee, so don't shoot the messenger.  I suggest you start adopting these rules in the new year to get used to them.  Most of the other changes are really tournament play and shouldn't impact rec play.

1 - No more Let Serves:  This change means that if on the serve, the ball hits the top of the net but still lands in the correct service court, it is considered a good serve and has to be played.  The correct service court means it cannot be in the NVZ (kitchen), outside the playing court or in the wrong service court.  If it lands in any of these areas, it is a FAULT.   

2 - New Drop Serve option - You are now allowed to drop the ball, let it hit on the ground and then hit it.  You cannot force the ball down to bounce it which would make it bounce higher.  It must be dropped and there is no limit how high you drop it.  If you drop it, it should not bounce above your waist.  Your feet cannot touch inside the court but the ball can bounce in the court. The key here is that the rules about hitting in an upward motion and paddle must be below your wrist DO NOT APPLY.  So, the drop serve could open up a whole new serve strategy.  It should be interesting.  This rule is stated as a Provisional to be reviewed at the end of 2021.   Give this a try and see if you like it.