The Inevitable Rise of Pickleball as a Varsity Sport and the Subsequent Boom of Junior Club Systems
Pickleball's meteoric rise from a niche activity to a mainstream sport has been nothing short of astounding. Once considered a leisurely game for retirees, pickleball's accessibility, inclusion and fast paced gameplay have attracted players of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. This rapid expansion begs the question: When will pickleball be recognized as a varsity sport at the high school and collegiate levels? The answer is not a matter of if, but when. And when it happens, it will spark the creation of a robust junior club system, paving the way for future generations of elite pickleball athletes.
The Evolution of Pickleball in Schools
The journey towards varsity recognition has already begun. In a groundbreaking move, Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland introduced pickleball as an official varsity sport in the fall of 2024. This historic decision legitimized the sport within the scholastic athletic system and set a precedent for other school districts to follow. As participation numbers continue to surge and the demand for organized competition grows, it's only a matter of time before more schools and states embrace pickleball at the varsity level.
The reasons for pickleball's growing popularity in schools are clear. The sport is relatively easy to learn, requires minimal equipment, and can be played in a variety of settings. It's also an excellent way for students to stay active and develop hand-eye coordination, agility, and strategic thinking skills. Furthermore, pickleball's social nature fosters teamwork, sportsmanship, and a sense of community among players - particularly because a pickleball team would include boys and girls competing together.
Massachusetts: The MIAA
The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) has not yet approved pickleball as a varsity sport in Massachusetts. Proposals to sanction pickleball were narrowly defeated in 2021 and 2022 (Natick Report). A two-year waiting period is required before resubmitting the proposal. Consequently, advocates plan to present a new proposal to the MIAA in the summer of 2025 (USA Pickleball).
In the interim, pickleball has gained traction as a club sport in Massachusetts high schools. The inaugural high school pickleball season took place in the fall of 2024, featuring eleven schools, primarily from central and western regions of the state. The season concluded with a state championship tournament in mid-October. The sport's popularity continues to rise, with additional schools across the state expressing interest in participating in future seasons.
The Collegiate Explosion and NCAA Prospects
Pickleball's growth at the collegiate level is equally impressive. Over 150 colleges and universities now have active pickleball clubs, and participation continues to skyrocket. The DUPR Collegiate National Championship has experienced exponential growth, expanding from 17 schools in 2022 to over 125 in 2024, with thousands of student-athletes competing. While pickleball hasn't yet been formally recognized as an NCAA sport, the interest and momentum are undeniable. As more schools introduce structured club programs and intercollegiate competition expands, varsity status at the collegiate level is inevitable.
The benefits of pickleball for college students are numerous. The sport provides a fun and engaging way to stay active and relieve stress. It also offers opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, build friendships, and compete in a coed sport at a high level. Moreover, pickleball's inclusive nature makes it accessible to students of all athletic abilities.
The Junior Club System: A Natural Evolution
Widespread varsity recognition of pickleball in both high schools and universities will undoubtedly lead to the expansion of a structured junior club system. Similar to soccer, lacrosse, hockey, basketball, and tennis, pickleball will establish a pipeline from youth leagues to high school and college competition. Junior pickleball clubs will provide young athletes with structured training, coaching, and competitive opportunities, facilitating a smooth transition into varsity and collegiate play. This development will not only enhance player development but also contribute to the professionalization of the sport at the highest levels.
The creation of a junior club system will have a profound impact on the future of pickleball. By providing young players with access to quality coaching, premium court facilities, and competitive experiences, it will nurture the next generation of elite pickleball athletes. Moreover, it will create a pathway for talented players to earn college scholarships and potentially pursue professional careers in the sport.
What Needs to Happen Next?
While pickleball's varsity future appears bright, several key steps remain:
State Athletic Association Recognition: More state high school athletic associations need to sanction pickleball as an official sport. This requires advocacy from players, coaches, parents, and administrators.
Collegiate Expansion: The continued growth of college pickleball clubs and the eventual inclusion of pickleball in NCAA competition will further solidify its legitimacy.
Investment in Junior Development: Private organizations, local recreation departments, and national governing bodies must collaborate to create junior training programs that feed into high school and collegiate play.
Facility Development: Broader availability of dedicated pickleball facilities, both indoor and outdoor, will be crucial for the sport's continued growth at all levels.
Coach Education and Certification: The development of coaching education and certification programs will ensure that young players receive quality instruction and guidance.
The Future is Bright
The trajectory of pickleball is clear: varsity status is imminent, and when it arrives, it will revolutionize the sport's development pipeline. The emergence of a structured junior club system will ensure that young players have the resources and competitive opportunities they need to excel. The only question left to answer is when—but with each passing season, that answer is becoming increasingly clear. Pickleball's varsity moment is on the horizon, and the sport's next generation is ready and waiting.
