If you haven’t yet heard the pop-pop-pop of a wiffle ball bouncing off a paddle, it’s only a matter of time. Pickleball — once a quiet pastime mostly enjoyed in retirement communities — has exploded into the mainstream and is now the fastest-growing sport in the United States for the third year in a row. And it’s not just for the over-60 crowd anymore. Everyone from teens to celebrities to serious athletes are picking up paddles and heading to the courts.
So, what’s the deal with pickleball — and why is everyone suddenly obsessed with it?
What Is Pickleball, Anyway?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s played on a smaller court (about a third the size of a tennis court), with a paddle slightly bigger than a ping-pong paddle and a perforated plastic ball that looks like a whiffle ball.
Games are usually played as doubles, but singles games are popular too. The rules are easy to learn, making it a go-to activity for beginners. But don’t be fooled — once you get going, there’s plenty of room for skill, strategy, and yes, serious competition.
Pickleball’s accessible nature is part of what makes it so addictive. Within minutes of trying it, many people find themselves hooked. It’s social, active, and a good workout without feeling too intense, which means it appeals to just about everyone.
From Backyard Game to National Craze
Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three dads in Bainbridge Island, Washington, looking to entertain their bored kids. What started as a backyard improvisation using bits of different sports equipment is now a nationwide phenomenon with more than 13.6 million players as of 2024.
In fact, the Sports & Fitness Industry Association recently reported that pickleball grew by an astonishing 223 percent over the past three years. That’s faster than any other sport in the country, and by a long shot.
And the growth shows no signs of slowing down. New courts are popping up everywhere, in parks, rec centers, private clubs, and even repurposed department stores. In some cities, there’s even a waitlist to join a league!
Pickleball in the Jewish Community
One of the most beautiful things about pickleball is how it brings people together — and that sense of community is what makes it such a natural fit for Jewish institutions like the Mandel JCC.
Whether you’re 25 or 75, new to the game or an experienced player, pickleball offers an opportunity to connect, laugh, move your body, and enjoy some friendly competition.
At the Mandel JCC, we’ve seen firsthand how pickleball has become more than just a sport, it’s a social experience. People come for the game and stay for the community. It’s not uncommon to see multi-generational matchups, new friendships forged across the net, or players grabbing a coffee together after a match.
Why Everyone Is Playing
So why has pickleball become so popular, so quickly? Here are just a few reasons:
• It’s Easy to Learn: You don’t need a long athletic background or months of training to get the hang of it.
• It’s Low-Impact: The smaller court and slower ball mean less stress on joints, making it ideal for older adults or those with injuries.
• It’s Social: With short games and regular rotation, players get to meet and interact with lots of different people.
• It’s Affordable: Compared to golf or tennis, pickleball requires minimal equipment and can be played in a variety of settings.
• It’s Just Plain Fun: The learning curve is short, the laughter is constant, and the satisfaction of scoring a point is instant.
Fun Pickleball Facts
• The sport’s quirky name is said to come from one of the inventors’ dogs, Pickles, who loved chasing the ball around!
• Professional pickleball players now compete for six-figure prize money in televised matches.
• NBA stars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant have invested in professional pickleball teams.
• There’s even a growing trend of pickleball vacations, where players travel to resorts that offer clinics, tournaments, and open play.
Tips for First-Timers
Thinking of giving pickleball a shot? Here are a few tips to get you started:
• Start with a lesson or clinic: Learning from a coach or experienced player can help you avoid bad habits and build confidence quickly.
• Get the right shoes: Wear court shoes, not running shoes, to avoid rolling your ankle.
• Warm up and stretch: Just because it’s fun doesn’t mean it’s not a workout!
• Respect the “kitchen”: That’s the non-volley zone near the net. You’ll learn to love (or fear) it.
• Be a good sport: Like any community activity, kindness and respect go a long way. Win or lose, say “nice shot!”
Pickleball at the Mandel JCC
The Mandel JCC is proud to offer pickleball all year long. Whether you’re looking for a casual game, structured clinics, beginner-friendly lessons, or competitive leagues, they’ve got you covered.
The JCC’s indoor gym and outdoor courts mean you can play no matter the weather, and the welcoming community ensures you’ll always find someone to hit with. They even host special pickleball mixers and themed events throughout the year because, let’s face it, pickleball is more fun with music, snacks, and a little flair.
If you’ve been curious about the sport that everyone’s talking about, there’s never been a better time to jump in. Grab a paddle, meet new people, and see what all the fuss is about.
Because once you start — you’ll be hooked.
Want to Play?
Check out the JCC’s weekly pickleball schedule, upcoming clinics, and events on jcconline.com or stop by the Mandel JCC to learn more. Whether you’re playing for the first time or looking to up your game, the JCC is here to help you serve, smash, and score all year long.
