The unstoppable rise of pickleball: from backyards to global phenomenon

Football, with its 2.5 billion players, and cricket, with just as many fans, dominate global sports. But quietly sneaking up behind these giants is a game with a quirky name: 

Pickleball.

Yes, you heard that right. Once a backyard pastime, pickleball is now one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, sweeping into parks, clubs, and communities.

Its origin story? As casual as it gets. 

In 1965, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum, seeking summer entertainment for their kids on Bainbridge Island, Washington, pulled together a badminton court, some ping-pong paddles, and a ball. They lowered the net to 36 inches to match the ball’s bounce on the asphalt, and from this simple setup, pickleball was born.

Today, pickleball has evolved into a movement that brings people together, gets them active, and builds vibrant communities. With pro leagues, televised matches, and clubs popping up everywhere, the sport’s rise is phenomenal. The secret behind its rapid growth?

In an era of aging boomers, pickleball is much gentler on the joints and less demanding than tennis. Kids can play it easily too, so it’s inherently a more sociable game, which isn’t surprising considering it was created by a family for their family.

So, if you are thinking of starting a pickleball club or developing yours,  here is expert advice from Jorge Barragan, a pickleball club owner who blends innovation with community to keep members coming back: 

1. Build a community, not just courts

Pickleball’s secret sauce is its social nature. 

“Creating a pickleball club is really about creating a community,” says Jorge. 

It’s not enough to just provide courts. You need to build connections. Organize social gatherings, themed events, and casual tournaments to bring members together. Events like a “Cinco de Mayo tournament” don’t just give people a reason to play—they foster long-term loyalty and belonging.

2. Offer 24/7 access for convenience

As pickleball’s popularity skyrockets, finding open courts at public parks is becoming increasingly difficult. Jorge points out that “it’s hard to find open courts anymore.” Offering 24/7 access through secure, coded entry gives members the flexibility to play whenever it suits them, making your club a sought-after alternative to overcrowded public spaces.

3. Stay flexible with events to keep players engaged

If you’re always hosting the same type of tournament, you risk “tournament fatigue.” Jorge recommends mixing things up. Try out different formats like “King’s Court or timed games” to keep things fresh. Balancing competitive events with lighter, more social ones ensures that you cater to all types of members, from the casual player to the hardcore competitor.

4. Leverage social media for community insight

Staying connected with your players outside of club hours will keep engagement high. Jorge stays active in around 40 Facebook groups dedicated to pickleball. Even if you don’t go that far, creating and managing a few community pages can provide valuable insights into what your members want, allowing you to adapt your club’s offerings to meet their needs.

5. Introduce leagues and team play

Pickleball is a sport, but it’s also about belonging to something bigger. Jorge points out that “It’s not just a game but a community when you feel part of something bigger.” Leagues and team events modelled after Major League Pickleball can build camaraderie and keep members coming back. When players feel like they’re part of a team, they’re more invested in both the game and your club.

6. Use technology to stay competitive

Incorporating technology into the pickleball experience can give your club an edge. Jorge suggests adding features like AI-enabled line calls, performance tracking, or even digital scoreboards. These small tech upgrades can enhance the game and give your club a modern appeal. Consider buying a “Dinkwall” which will cost you around $300 and is a simple board that you hit balls against and is good for training “Dinkshots,” as its name implies. 

7. Track member progress with ratings

Players love to see their progress. “People love seeing their numbers go up,” Jorge notes. Incorporating popular rating systems like DUPR helps players track their improvement, giving them another reason to visit your club regularly and strive to reach their personal best.

8. Stay competitive in a growing market

As pickleball’s popularity continues to grow, so does the competition between clubs. Jorge emphasizes the importance of innovation: “If you’re not growing and adapting, you’ll get left behind.” Regularly ask for member feedback to stay ahead of the curve. Offering unique programs, like exclusive leagues or specialized equipment rentals, can help your club stand out in a crowded market.

9. Offer quality equipment for enhanced gameplay

Pickleball players care about their gear. Providing access to top-quality paddles and balls that align with current trends can make a big difference in the member experience. Jorge suggests stocking highly-rated paddles and balls for rent or sale—not only does this enhance the gameplay, but it can also serve as an additional revenue stream for your club.

10. Explore sponsorships and partnerships

Collaborating with local brands or sponsoring teams can boost your club’s visibility. Jorge’s club created “The Pickler Cubs,” a minor league team that generated local interest and pride. Partnerships with pickleball brands or businesses can provide valuable exposure and support your club’s growth, whether it’s through equipment sponsorships or community events.

11. Consider using pickleball management software 

Everyone loves a well-organized court. With Wellyx, you can manage your pickleball stadium more effectively. This pickleball management software takes the hassle out of scheduling, making it easy for your members to book games, join events, and manage your social media. Plus, Wellyx helps you create a sense of community with tools that let you manage memberships, track progress, and even send updates—all in one place. Embrace Wellyx, and watch your club thrive while staying competitive and connected.

Keep evolving to stay relevant

Pickleball isn’t just evolving. It’s exploding in popularity. If you want your club to keep up, you’ll need to adapt. As Jorge says, “If you’re not changing, you’ll get left behind.” Clubs that embrace new formats, integrate technology, and keep an open dialogue with their members will create an experience that stands the test of time. Pickleball is more than just a sport—it’s a community-driven movement. Those who understand that will thrive.

With its unique mix of social interaction, accessibility, and competitive play, pickleball is here to stay.