The Rise of College Pickleball: How It’s Becoming the Next Big Collegiate Sport
In recent years, pickleball has evolved from a recreational pastime for retirees to a fast-growing sport embraced by younger generations, especially on college campuses. What started as a casual activity during the pandemic quickly transformed into an organized collegiate sport, captivating students across the U.S. The rise of college pickleball is undeniable, and with its increasing popularity, universities are starting to take notice.
This blog will dive into how college pickleball is expanding, explore real stories from universities that have embraced it, and examine why it’s becoming a dominant feature in campus life. Additionally, we’ll look at what’s next for pickleball as it gains momentum in athletic programs across the nation.
Pickleball’s Explosive Growth on College Campuses
For decades, pickleball was primarily known as a low-impact sport, popular among seniors for its mix of tennis, badminton, and ping pong elements. However, over the last few years, the game has found new life on college campuses, fueled by its accessibility and competitive nature.
Take the University of Florida as an example. In 2020, the university offered pickleball as an intramural sport for the first time, and the response was overwhelming. Initially, they anticipated only a small group of players, but the number of participants grew exponentially. By 2022, over 400 students had signed up for regular games, and the university now boasts an organized pickleball league that competes in intercollegiate tournaments.
This is not an isolated case. The University of North Carolina (UNC) also launched a pickleball club, and it quickly became one of the most popular student organizations on campus. What makes pickleball so appealing is its inclusivity—students of all skill levels can participate, creating an environment that’s both competitive and fun. It's not surprising that UCLA, Arizona State University, and other major universities have followed suit by incorporating pickleball into their recreational and competitive sports programs.
Why Students Are Flocking to Pickleball
There are several reasons why pickleball is flourishing in the collegiate environment.
Easy to Learn, Hard to Master
Unlike some sports that require years of practice to achieve basic proficiency, pickleball is relatively easy to pick up. Whether you're a tennis star or a complete novice, you can start playing and enjoying the game quickly. As students get more competitive, the game’s subtleties—like perfecting serves, dinks, and volleys—become addictive.Affordability
Unlike other college sports, pickleball doesn’t require expensive equipment. A paddle and a few balls are all you need to get started. Most universities are also retrofitting existing tennis or basketball courts with pickleball lines, making it a budget-friendly addition to recreational sports programs.Social Aspect
Pickleball’s smaller court size and doubles format promote communication and camaraderie. Many students find that the sport offers a great way to meet new people and stay active. The team dynamics foster a sense of community that’s essential in college life, especially post-pandemic when social engagement was drastically reduced.Inclusive for All Skill Levels
One of the major reasons students love pickleball is that it doesn’t have an intimidating barrier to entry. A complete beginner can team up with a more experienced player, and they can both enjoy the game. This inclusiveness has made it a popular option for intramurals, as it caters to the broadest audience possible.
University Spotlights: Pickleball’s College Success Stories
The rise of pickleball at colleges isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming a staple of campus life. Here are a few standout examples of how universities are embracing the sport and elevating it to new heights.
University of Florida’s Rapid Growth
The University of Florida (UF) was one of the first major universities to adopt pickleball as a legitimate sport, and its popularity exploded almost overnight. What started as an intramural option with a few dozen participants in 2020 has now become a cornerstone of UF’s recreational sports program. By 2022, pickleball had over 400 active participants, making it one of the most popular sports on campus. UF now offers an intercollegiate pickleball team, competing against other universities in tournaments across the country. The university’s decision to include pickleball was strategic, acknowledging the sport’s rising popularity nationwide.
University of North Carolina’s Vibrant Club Scene
At the University of North Carolina (UNC), pickleball took off largely due to student demand. In 2021, a group of students formed an official pickleball club, and it became an instant hit. UNC students are now regularly hosting large-scale tournaments, inviting participants from neighboring schools, and promoting friendly competition. The club’s growth has been nothing short of meteoric, and it’s a clear sign of how much pickleball resonates with students looking for a mix of competition and recreation.
Arizona State University: A Pickleball Powerhouse
Arizona State University (ASU) has embraced pickleball at both the recreational and competitive levels. ASU’s pickleball club was founded by students in 2019, and it’s grown to over 200 active members today. ASU's courts are always filled with players, and the school frequently hosts campus-wide tournaments. What’s particularly notable about ASU’s pickleball scene is the way it integrates with the local community—students often play alongside residents, fostering a multi-generational appreciation for the sport.
Pickleball’s Future in Collegiate Athletics: Will It Become an NCAA Sport?
As pickleball’s popularity continues to surge on college campuses, the next big question is whether it will achieve NCAA recognition. While it may sound far-fetched, the sport’s growth trajectory suggests that it’s not out of the realm of possibility. Many smaller colleges are already discussing the potential of offering pickleball scholarships, particularly at the Division III level where the sport is exploding.
In 2023, the National Collegiate Pickleball Tournament (NCPT) drew teams from over 30 universities, including Texas A&M and the University of Michigan, solidifying the sport’s presence in competitive collegiate athletics. As more universities establish pickleball teams and offer competitive opportunities, there is speculation that the NCAA may eventually take notice and consider making pickleball an official collegiate sport.
How Pickleball Is Enhancing Campus Life
Beyond its athletic appeal, pickleball is making a significant impact on campus culture. It’s not just about the game—it’s about creating a more engaging and connected student body. College life is notoriously stressful, and pickleball provides an outlet for students to unwind and socialize.
At Stanford University, a group of students found that pickleball offered a much-needed stress reliever during finals week. The students gathered regularly for evening matches, and many reported that playing pickleball helped them stay focused and improve their mental health. The social nature of the game, combined with its fast-paced yet low-pressure environment, makes it a perfect activity for college students looking for a break from academic pressure.
What’s Next for College Pickleball?
The future of pickleball in collegiate sports looks incredibly bright. As more universities recognize its value—not just as a recreational activity but as a potential competitive sport—the infrastructure supporting pickleball will continue to grow. More universities are investing in pickleball courts, offering official club recognition, and even exploring scholarships for talented players.
We may even see the rise of pickleball-specific leagues and regional championships that mimic the structure of other collegiate sports. For now, the National Collegiate Pickleball Tournament is leading the charge, but as the sport continues to expand, it’s only a matter of time before pickleball becomes a staple of college athletics.
Conclusion
The rise of pickleball on college campuses marks a significant cultural shift in how students engage with recreational sports. The sport’s inclusivity, affordability, and accessibility make it a perfect fit for the collegiate environment. With universities like the University of Florida, UNC, and Arizona State University leading the charge, and organizations like the National Collegiate Pickleball Tournament fueling its competitive edge, the future of college pickleball is incredibly promising.
Whether it’s forming a new pickleball club or competing in a national tournament, students across the U.S. are embracing the sport with open arms. As pickleball continues its upward trajectory, it’s clear that this once-niche game has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in college athletics.