Played on a 20x44ft court with paddles, pickleball is somewhat of a unique sport. It uses the same size court as badminton and the same net height as tennis but it has its own unique factors. It uses its own perforated ball similar to a wiffle ball. It uses paddles bigger than badminton but smaller than tennis and uses underarm serves.

So what makes it so appealing?

Pickleball is now the fastest-growing sport in America according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. One answer is accessibility. Pickleball is an easy sport to pick up.

Not a lot of skills are necessary to engage in game play, unlike a game such as hockey where numerous skills and materials are necessary. The balls are less bouncy and aerodynamic than a tennis ball, so the game can be slowed down and even beginner players can enjoy the game and participate in long rallies.

It is also easy to get started. All that is needed is a pickleball paddle, a pickleball, a nearby tennis or pickleball court, and a friend.

Sophmore Hazel McCarthy, a member of the pickleball club, can attest to this. “I started playing pickleball last year because I was interested” She said. “I got some friends to come along and we tried it out.” McCarthy said. She still plays to this day.

Pickleball is accessible for all age groups and skill levels. Games can be played to 11, 15 or 21. Also, because players can only get points when it’s their serve, games can be long and highly competitive.

This winter grab a friend and head to your nearest indoor pickleball court. Test skills and have fun.