Pickleball in our Community

by Sam VanNest

Self-described “Pickleheads” like Brandon Mackie have said that the sport is “magic.” There must be something to that, because in the past three years pickleball has grown to be the most popular game in the United States, with 36 million folks and counting getting in on the action.

The sport gained initial popularity during the pandemic as a safe, responsible activity to stay social and active. Now that lockdown tensions have eased, pickleball has eclipsed the outdoors-only re - strictions of social distancing and has grown exponentially. From its humble backyard beginning in the mid-’60s as a Seattle-area game for families, it has gained momentum more recently as a game among retirees. It transcends age, gender and skill level, however, and is an approachable and highly accessible sport. “It’s a social activity as much as a sport,” said Mackie, emphasizing the communal aspect that continues to propel its popularity. It’s a simple, fun and dynamic game.

Pickleball is usually played in