Although nothing quite beats the crunch and zest of a well-fermented cucumber, pickles are no part of this newly popularized sport. Born from two Washington families’ boredom, pickleball came to life on a sunny day in the summer of 1965. Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell were returning to Pritchard’s home after a day of golf and arrived to find their families were looking for a way to pass the time. The two dads were not going to let an old badminton court without enough rackets lead their loved ones to summertime blues. Instead, they improvised with spare ping pong paddles and a wiffle ball. When Pritchard’s wife Joan noted its similarity to the thrown together crew of a rowing “pickle boat,” pickleball found its name and became a sport that quickly gained traction in the Pacific Northwest.
Now, it is the fastest growing sport in America.
Last year alone, more than 13 million Americans picked up a pickleball paddle. The sport’s takeover began in 2022 when participation grew by 86 percent but has proven that it may be more than just a fad, as participation climbed 52 percent over the past 12 months of 2023. Not only this, but the sport saw a 111 percent increase in participants who played frequently enough to reflect a passion for the game.
As Americans have not been known for their health, activity, or passion in recent years, this rise in pickleball popularity could be a positive step for many. So, what is it that put the sport in such high demand?
The fast-paced, friendly, and enjoyable nature of the game is to thank. For starters, it’s affordable and easy to pick up. Whether using jerry-rigged or DIY supplies, the gear needed to start playing can cost next to nothing. You can always upgrade your gear if you fall head over heels for the game, as so many Americans have.
Designed with family enjoyment in mind, it only takes a few tries to figure out the game. This is one way that the sport is accessible, but it also is played on a small court: making it accessible, as well as fast-paced and close enough to socialize.
One of the best parts, in my opinion, is that pickleball—unlike some other sports—has no dress code. Obviously, athletic clothes that can be played and moved around in would be a wise choice, but removing the element of having to pay exuberant amounts of money to afford one outfit for your sport of choice sure brings a smile to my face.
If you somehow haven’t had the opportunity to see what everyone’s talking about, pickleball has made its way to our community with courts waiting to be broken in. There are already pickleball courts at The Grill at 84 West in Denison. Enjoy a day out playing a game of pickleball with friends, then enjoy a peaceful meal overlooking beautiful scenery. Looking to play in Pottsboro? Make a reservation at the recently renovated pickleball courts, located in the Raquet Center at Tanglewood Resort. See you on the court!
The Grill at 84 West
5216 FM84 Denison, TX