When students think of physical education at school, they think of shooting hoops in basketball, spiking a volleyball or kicking a soccer ball between teammates. This year, students have a new way to stay active while on campus: pickleball. Following pickleball’s recent rise to social media stardom, the sport has gone from something that was saved for retirement communities to one of the most popular sports for everyone, including teens.
Senior Grant Donohue took a liking to the sport over the summer, and when he saw it on the course offerings list, he fought to get it on his schedule.
“I took the class because I wanted to play the game and improve while I was at school,” Donohue said. “I love the sport, so I really wanted the class and I’m glad I got it on my schedule.”
The sport exploded in popularity in recent years. 2024 was its third year as the fastest growing sport in the US, with a staggering 223% growth rate. It is easy to pick up for people who have played badminton, paddleball, ping pong or tennis, especially since the pace of the game is a lot slower than these sports. The rules are similar to these sports– one side serves the ball over the net. Once the ball touches the ground, the players on the other side must hit it back over the net. If a team is unable to hit the ball back before it bounces twice, or it hits the net, then the opposing team scores, typically until a team reaches 11 points.
Additionally, facilities are readily available, since one pickleball court is only half of a tennis court. The school did not have to make any renovations to add the class, since tennis courts were already a part of campus just outside of the main gym near the stadium, using portable nets that stay on the courts unless there is inclement weather.
Volleyball coach Juanita Hitt was not sure what to expect when she took up the new course, especially since it made it up four out of her six class periods. However, she and her students settled in quickly.
“[The class] has been fantastic,” said Hitts. “Most of my periods are full, and the kids have been loving it, and they get really competitive and into it.”
Like all sports classes offered on campus, pickleball is open to all skill levels.
“I really only took the class because I needed an elective credit, I didn’t know much about the sport,” said senior Connor Stromberg. “I ended up really liking it, and this is actually my second semester in the class.”
According to Hitt, many students follow a similar path as Stromberg.
“I’ve seen kids get into it, and start enjoying the sport through this class,” said Hitt. “What’s awesome to see is kids who haven’t played it before doing something like getting shoes, or bringing their own paddle, or even just picking up the game and liking it, and starting to play outside of school.”
Pickleball’s resurgence in the youth was unexpected, but there is no doubt in its appeal and popularity. With a new wave of students joining next year, the newly arrived class will likely only grow in popularity.
“What I like about [the class] too is that your athletic ability or experience doesn’t really matter,” said Donohue. “If you sign up, you’re gonna enjoy it, and you might walk away with a new hobby.”
