What’s The Big Deal About Pickleball?

We were recently hired to take photos and video for a senior living community that would like to draw more attention to their outdoor amenities. While using a drone camera to capture the community from above, we were struck by how many of the tennis courts have been converted to the shorter, more accessible pickleball courts.

So, what is the big deal about pickleball?

Accessibility
Despite the silly name (one of the game’s founders had a dog named “Pickles”), pickleball is a serious sport that combines elements of tennis, ping pong and badminton.

It can be played inside or outside, as singles or doubles, and it is perfect for players who have physical limitations. We have even seen very active, very engaged players who swing their paddles from a wheelchair!

“Fastest Growing Sport in America”
Over 4 million people now play pickleball, making it the fastest growing sport in America. It is an absolute phenomenon in senior living communities. There are regular tournaments for beginners and for experts. Part of its appeal, though, is that it a truly multigenerational sport—grandchild can play with grandparent.

It’s a Social Game
Because both the courts and the games themselves are short, there is a lot of socializing that goes on. You can see the happy chattering during games. And that’s one more reason why this game is so addicting!

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 SGD is a San Francisco Bay Area advertising, marketing and branding agency specializing in the senior and boomer markets.  

About the Author: Duff Reiter is a Partner at SGD Advertising.