In recent years, the sport of pickleball has seen unprecedented growth throughout America. According to a report by the Trust for Public Land, the number of outdoor public park pickleball courts in major cities has increased by a staggering 650% over the past seven years. This growth has led to the installation of more than 3,000 courts across 100 of the most populated cities in the country.
This surge in popularity has seen parks and recreation departments embracing pickleball, leading to a rapid increase in the number of dedicated courts available to the public. Additionally, franchises, country clubs, and fitness clubs have also jumped on the pickleball bandwagon, either building new courts or converting existing spaces to cater to the growing demand for the sport.
Pickleball Courts Across America
Cities like Louisville, Kentucky; Madison, Wisconsin; and Honolulu have emerged as hotspots for pickleball, boasting the most courts per capita in the country. This growth has helped to attract people of all ages and backgrounds to public parks, fostering a sense of community and engagement among residents.
One shining example of a community benefiting from the pickleball boom is City Pickle in New York City. Founded in 2022, City Pickle operates multiple courts in Central Park and has seen a rapid increase in popularity. With innovative pricing models and a user-friendly app for booking court time, City Pickle has become a hub for pickleball enthusiasts in the city.
However, with this rapid growth comes the challenge of potential oversaturation in certain markets. Co-founders Erica Desai and Mary Cannon of City Pickle are acutely aware of this issue and are carefully considering their expansion plans to avoid oversaturation in the future.
Expansion and Innovation in the Pickleball Industry
Pickleball Kingdom, the world’s largest indoor pickleball facility, has announced plans for over 25 new locations across the country. Through franchising, Pickleball Kingdom has experienced tremendous growth, with over 100 clubs now in operation. This expansion is a testament to the increasing demand for pickleball facilities nationwide.
Gyms like Life Time are also embracing the pickleball trend, with almost 700 courts available across their U.S. locations. The company’s decision to convert a former Bed Bath & Beyond location into a pickleball facility demonstrates the growing popularity of the sport among gym-goers.
At Invited Clubs, the largest owner and operator of private golf clubs, pickleball has become a central focus for growth and community engagement. CEO David Pillsbury notes that they have invested millions of dollars into the sport, seeing it as a valuable component in fostering active and loyal members within their clubs.
The rise of pickleball in America is a testament to the sport’s accessibility, community-building potential, and widespread appeal. As pickleball continues to grow and evolve, it will be fascinating to see how it shapes the landscape of recreational sports in the years to come.