Lesson 4: Key Rules and Fouls to Know

Knowing what is allowed — and what is not — keeps the game fair and fun.

The Serve (very important!):

• The serve must be underhand — the server bounces the ball once on the ground, then strikes it at or below waist height (1.06 m)
• At least one foot must stay on the ground behind the service line — no jumping or running
• The ball must travel diagonally into the receiver's opposite service box
• Each server gets two attempts; missing both is a double fault and costs a point
• A serve clipping the net that lands correctly is a let and is replayed

During a Rally:

• You can hit the ball before it bounces (a volley) or after one bounce only
• After bouncing, the ball may rebound off your own walls before you play it — this is legal!
• A returned ball must clear the net; once on the opponents' side it may bounce and rebound off their walls

You lose the point if you:

• Let the ball bounce twice on your side
• Hit the ball into the net or out of the enclosure
• Strike the ball so it hits the opponents' fence or wall before bouncing on their ground
• Touch the net or opponents' court while the ball is live