If you have never heard of the sport of pickleball, let us fill you in on one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Pickleball is a sport similar to tennis with smaller paddles, a harder ball, and less movement overall. The average age group of pickleball players is fifty five years and older. This is because many older citizens turn towards the sport for their daily exercise and a fun way to keep themselves moving. Whether you are male or female, a young or old player, it doesn't really matter which is what helps make pickleball a great sport.

The History of Pickleball

Pickleball was invented in 1965, so in the grand scheme of things it is a relatively new sport. It was actually invented by three fathers in Washington state who were looking to give their children something to do. With a badminton net in hand, a few wooden paddles and a plastic ball the sport was made and grew from there. Although it is difficult to determine exactly how fast the sport grew from there or the story of how it became famous nationally and internationally, the sport has certainly sparked interest amongst the public in recent years.

Pickleball by the Numbers

According to the United States of America Pickleball Association (USAPA), the sport has had a 650% increase in numbers in the past six years. Could you think of any other sport that has grown that popular in such a short amount of time? The USAPA gives some credit for the popularity growth to senior citizens from the southern states of America for playing the game avidly at RV communities and retirement homes.

The Ever Growing Popularity of Pickleball

Since 2009 when the Pickleball boom first began, many different parks and recreation centers have introduced Pickleball into their communities. Since tennis courts can be used for Pickleball quite easily it makes for a seamless transition and allows for both sports to be played on the same court without any additional construction. It has become so popular in some towns that leagues have been formed that play multiple different times a week.

Pickleball on an International Scale

Not only has Pickleball become a sport popular amongst people here in the United States, but it has also become an international phenomena. This is mostly due to the fact that Pickleball has a low cost to enter the sport. Just as soccer, basketball, or football only requires a ball or possibly a net, Pickleball only requires a ball net and paddles. 

Pickleball has grown immensely (650% to be exact) within the past few years on both a national and international scale. In fact there have become Pickleball restaurants that feature indoor and outdoor courts for your pleasure prior to eating dinner. The worldwide pandemic has also contributed to the growth of the sport. Additionally Pickleball is also healthy for your body and your mind meeting new people while getting a workout in the process. Look for Pickleball to continue growing in the years to come as this is still a new sport and it is a whole lot of fun.

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