Top 10 Colleges for Pickleball Enthusiasts in 2024

As pickleball continues to grow across the U.S., college students are looking for schools where they can keep up with the sport they love. With more universities adding pickleball courts, competitive clubs, and intramural leagues, campus pickleball culture is thriving. If you're a pickleball enthusiast or just curious about this fast-growing sport, choosing a college with a vibrant pickleball scene could be a game-changer.

Here’s a look at the top 10 colleges for pickleball enthusiasts in 2024, where students can play, compete, and even represent their schools in regional and national tournaments.

1. University of Florida

With one of the most active pickleball clubs in the country, the University of Florida (UF) is a top choice for pickleball lovers. The UF Pickleball Club has over 400 members, with regular games, clinics, and tournaments open to players of all skill levels. UF’s commitment to supporting the sport has created a robust campus pickleball community, and the university is known for its competitive intercollegiate team.

Highlights:

• Large, active club with weekly meet-ups and tournaments

• Access to pickleball courts retrofitted from existing tennis courts

• Regular intercollegiate competitions

2. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) has been at the forefront of the college pickleball movement. ASU’s pickleball club, founded in 2019, quickly became one of the most popular student organizations on campus. With over 200 members, ASU regularly hosts tournaments and events that draw players from around the state. ASU students also participate in the National Collegiate Pickleball Tournament (NCPT), making it a great choice for students interested in competitive play.

Highlights:

• Strong, competitive pickleball club with regional and national participation

• Mixed intramural and club options, including singles and doubles

• Partnerships with local Arizona pickleball clubs

3. University of North Carolina

The University of North Carolina (UNC) is known for its active campus sports culture, and pickleball is no exception. The UNC Pickleball Club was established by students in 2021 and quickly gained popularity, with over 100 members participating regularly. UNC’s Southeast Collegiate Pickleball Championships have become a regional hit, drawing teams from schools across the Southeast.

Highlights:

• Host of the Southeast Collegiate Pickleball Championships

• Strong club with intercollegiate play and intramural leagues

• Regular tournaments and events for players of all levels

4. Michigan State University

Michigan State University (MSU) has been a major player in college pickleball. The MSU pickleball club is one of the largest student sports clubs on campus, known for its high level of organization and regular tournaments. Students at MSU enjoy a blend of casual open-play days and competitive matches, making it a great option for all skill levels.

Highlights:

• Large, organized club with dedicated practice sessions

• Access to dedicated pickleball courts and equipment

• Regular travel to regional and national tournaments

5. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) has one of the most passionate college pickleball clubs in the country. UT’s pickleball club is a dynamic community that regularly hosts bi-weekly matches, open-play days, and even friendly competitions with other Texas universities. UT’s pickleball culture has grown rapidly, and the school is exploring the potential for competitive team support.

Highlights:

• Bi-weekly practices, clinics, and tournaments for all skill levels

• Opportunities for friendly competition with nearby universities

• Access to converted tennis courts for dedicated pickleball play

6. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan (UMich) has been a trendsetter in college pickleball, with a thriving club that organizes intramural leagues and campus-wide tournaments. UMich’s pickleball community is active year-round, and the club has established a reputation for its competitive spirit, often sending teams to events like the National Collegiate Pickleball Tournament (NCPT).

Highlights:

• Competitive club with regular tournaments and intercollegiate participation

• Inclusive environment, with leagues for both beginners and advanced players

• Year-round events, including winter pickleball leagues

7. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

UCLA offers a strong pickleball program that has quickly gained traction among students. The UCLA Pickleball Club is known for its friendly, inclusive culture and its regular open-play sessions on retrofitted tennis courts. UCLA students also compete against other Southern California universities, making it a great choice for students interested in intercollegiate play.

Highlights:

• Friendly, inclusive club with open play and structured games

• Access to shared pickleball courts and equipment

• Strong intercollegiate ties with neighboring schools

8. Ohio State University

Ohio State University (OSU) is home to a rapidly growing pickleball scene. OSU’s pickleball club is active in intramural leagues, regional tournaments, and competitive play. The club’s mix of social and competitive events has made it popular among students, and OSU’s dedication to expanding its intramural sports offerings means pickleball is here to stay.

Highlights:

• Regular intramural leagues for singles and doubles play

• Competitive events, including friendly matches with other schools

• Campus recreation support for club expansion

9. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M has embraced pickleball with a thriving club and intramural leagues. The school’s Texas Collegiate Pickleball Invitational is a highly anticipated event that draws teams from across Texas, creating a strong competitive atmosphere. Texas A&M’s supportive sports culture and commitment to intramurals make it a solid option for pickleball enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• Texas Collegiate Pickleball Invitational tournament host

• Active intramural leagues and club practices

• Competitive culture with strong regional rivalries

10. Stanford University

Stanford University has built a supportive pickleball culture focused on stress relief and community. The Stanford Pickleball Club has grown steadily, offering students regular games and workshops. Stanford students also participate in friendly matches with nearby universities, creating a positive and inclusive environment that’s ideal for beginners and competitive players alike.

Highlights:

• Inclusive, beginner-friendly club culture with regular open-play sessions

• Local intercollegiate matches with other California schools

• Strong emphasis on wellness and community engagement

What Makes a College Great for Pickleball?

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a college with a strong pickleball scene:

1. Club Size and Activity
   A large, active club means more opportunities to play, learn, and compete. Schools with well-established clubs often offer more events, tournaments, and practice sessions, catering to a wider range of interests and skill levels.

2. Access to Courts and Equipment
   Access to dedicated pickleball courts or lines on existing courts makes a huge difference. Many top schools retrofit tennis or basketball courts to accommodate pickleball players, ensuring students can play regularly.

3. Intercollegiate Competition
   Schools with intercollegiate play allow students to represent their universities in tournaments and friendly matches, adding excitement and pride to the college experience.

4. Supportive Campus Recreation Programs
   Universities with strong campus rec programs often offer more support for new clubs, including funding, equipment access, and spaces for events.

5. Inclusive and Welcoming Culture
   Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, a supportive and inclusive culture is essential. Many of the top pickleball schools focus on creating a fun, welcoming environment that makes it easy for all students to participate.

Why Pickleball Schools Are Gaining Popularity

The rise of college pickleball is part of a larger movement toward inclusive, social sports that promote both wellness and camaraderie. Students are increasingly interested in sports that provide a balance of competition and recreation, and pickleball fits the bill perfectly. As more schools recognize this, pickleball programs will likely continue to grow, creating more opportunities for students to engage in the sport.

With intercollegiate tournaments like the National Collegiate Pickleball Tournament (NCPT) gaining traction, college pickleball programs may eventually reach a similar level of popularity as other club sports, helping students stay active and connected on campus.

Conclusion

For pickleball enthusiasts, choosing a college with a vibrant pickleball scene can greatly enhance the college experience. Schools like University of Florida, Arizona State University, and University of North Carolina have created incredible opportunities for students to play, compete, and build lasting friendships through the sport.

As pickleball grows, universities will continue to expand their offerings, from dedicated courts to competitive teams and scholarships. With more students discovering the joy of pickleball each year, these top 10 schools provide the best environments for college pickleball enthusiasts in 2024.