It may seem hard to believe, but America’s fastest growing sport is one that many people are barely familiar with: pickleball. While it’s likely you’ve heard of it by now, you may only have a vague idea that it’s some kind of racket sport. Let’s take a closer look at pickleball and why it’s so popular right now.
A Hybrid Racket Sport
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong (table tennis). It is typically played on a rectangular court, either indoors or outdoors, with a net in the middle. The game involves two or four players who use solid paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball, similar to a wiffle ball, over the net. The objective is to score points by hitting the ball in a way that the opponents cannot return it successfully.
History of Pickleball
Pickleball was invented in the mid-1960s by three friends – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum – in Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA. The exact origin story varies slightly, but it’s widely accepted that the game was created as a way to keep the kids entertained during the summer. The name “pickleball” supposedly came from the Pritchard family’s dog, Pickles, who would chase after the ball and run off with it.
The initial setup of the game used badminton courts and paddles, and the first ball used was a perforated plastic ball, which allowed for slower gameplay than tennis. Over time, the game’s rules and equipment were refined to create a distinct sport. It grew in popularity through local communities and gained a foothold in recreational centers and retirement communities due to its accessibility to people of various ages and fitness levels.
Pickleball’s popularity expanded beyond Bainbridge Island, and it gradually spread across the United States and eventually internationally. The United States of America Pickleball Association (USAPA) was founded in 1984 to standardize the rules and promote the sport. The association’s efforts helped establish consistent regulations and guidelines, contributing to pickleball’s growth as a competitive and organized sport.
Today, pickleball is played by millions of people around the world. It has gained a reputation for being a social and inclusive activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Tournaments, leagues, and clubs have sprung up globally, catering to both casual players and those seeking more competitive experiences. As the sport continues to evolve, it maintains its core principles of fun, simplicity, and accessibility.
Popular With Seniors
While people of all ages can and do play pickleball, a large amount of its growth can be attributed to its popularity with older people. The main reason is that it’s an aerobic sport that shares many elements with tennis but is less physically taxing as players don’t have to cover as much distance. Of course, another reason pickleball has gotten so popular among seniors is simply the networking effect. Pickleball has gotten a reputation as the thing to do for older, active adults. At the same time, this shouldn’t discourage younger people from trying it.
Resources to Learn More About Pickleball
Pickleball Land: Resources and information about the sport.
USA Pickleball: List of clubs around the USA. Keep in mind that the sport is rapidly growing, so this list may not be completely up to date or inclusive.
Pickleball Fanatic image available as a t-shirt, mug, poster, sticker, and on dozens of other items.