I witnessed a group of competitive guys playing pickleball one evening, and was surprised when 1 player yelled a "MISS" at the opposing player who was about to hit a shot. Later the other team tried to distract the server by waving their arms ferociously. I know that fair play & sportsmanship would not me to do this. Is this type of strategy or distraction legal as far as pickleball rules? According to IFP rules 12.H. it states, "Distractions. Players may not yell, stamp their feet, or otherwise try to distract an opponent when the opponent is about to play the ball. In Doubles, team communication shall not normally be considered a distraction. However, loud communication at the time the opponent is about to strike the ball may be considered a distraction. If, in the judgment of the referee, a distraction has occurred, it shall result in the loss of the rally." So if I yell to my partner to "LET IT BOUNCE" or "SOFT SHOT", "DOWN THE LINE" , those are allowed as partner communication. Full on distraction towards the other team, be it yelling, waving arms, or stamping your feet...NOPE!
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