How to run paddle stacking with Smart Stack
By the PaddleBag team · Updated October 6, 2026
Paddle stacking — lining paddles up by the fence to decide who plays next — works until the group gets big and someone waits three games in a row. Smart Stack does the same job on your phone, fairly, across as many courts as you have.
Start a stack in a minute
- The host taps Start a Smart Stack, names the session and sets how many courts are free.
- Add players by name, or share the session link so players can ask to join from their own phones.
- Players don't need an account to join or follow the board.
How the rotation stays fair
Whoever has waited longest plays next, and Smart Stack mixes partners so the same four don't keep playing each other. The host stays in control and can swap teams if a matchup looks lopsided.
When a game ends, the host taps the winning side (and the score, if you track it). Those players go straight back in line. Need a break? Sit out and you won't be called until you're back.
Big groups and many courts
- Fill every open court in one tap when a round ends.
- Players see an On Deck strip with who's likely up next, so nobody hovers by the fence.
- The Results tab keeps every game of the session, with scores.
FAQ
Is Smart Stack free?
Yes. Smart Stack is free for hosts and players, and players don't need to sign up.
Does Smart Stack work with more than one court?
Yes. Set the number of courts and it suggests a matchup for each open court, then fills them as games finish.
Can players sit out a game?
Yes. A player who sits out stays on the roster but isn't called until they mark themselves ready again.