National Pickleball League Expands: Pickleball, a fast-growing racket sport, is rising in Australia, drawing players of all ages. Once a niche activity, it has gained widespread popularity, thanks in part to the efforts of the National Pickleball League (NPL). With professional leagues, sponsorships, and increasing participation, the sport is making its mark nationwide.
A Sport That’s Easy to Learn and Fun to Play
Pickleball is a hybrid of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton, played on a smaller court with a lightweight paddle and plastic ball. “Everyone describes it differently,” says Ron Shell, CEO of Australia’s National Pickleball League. “I’d say it’s either big ping-pong or small tennis.”
Shell first encountered pickleball in Denver, Colorado, where he worked in sports marketing. The sport rose in popularity as Americans emerged from lockdown, drawn to its accessibility and social nature.
“Suddenly you could play a sport with pretty much anyone you knew, [including] people who didn’t necessarily love sport before. At the end of lockdown, people were seeking a lot more social interaction. They were looking for a sport where you could be social – you could still talk and be close to each other. It’s only gained popularity since then.” – (Shell)
Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, with doubles being the preferred format.
“In doubles especially, you gravitate towards the net and it becomes a game of strategy and placement – almost like a cat-and-mouse game. And literally anyone can play. You might have a 10-year-old and a 50-year-old on the court, and they’re still able to have a [competitive] game. It’s become a real community driver in that way.” – (Shell)
From Niche to National Phenomenon
Although invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, pickleball has only recently gained mainstream traction. The name, contrary to popular belief, did not come from a dog named Pickles.
“There’s an old wives’ tale that the name came from the inventor’s dog, Pickles. But actually the dog came after the sport was invented. The real story is that the people who invented it – in Bainbridge Island, Washington, in 1965 – combined a bunch of different rackets and sports, and it reminded them of a pickle crew.” – (Shell)
Inspired by the sport’s success in the U.S., Shell and his partners introduced pickleball to Australia on a professional level in 2022. They launched the National Pickleball League, which now hosts two pro seasons across the eastern states.
“It’s got a long way to go to become a mainstream sport. But there were 108 professional players and $100,000 prize money in each season.” – (Shell)
The sport’s growth has been fueled by strong sponsorships, including a key partnership with health fund ahm.
“We’re excited to find a partner that celebrates wellbeing, especially one with such a fun, irreverent way of connecting with their community. ahm is all about making health insurance accessible and straightforward, which are the same kind of aspirations we have for pickleball. It was a match made in heaven.” – (Shell)
As part of the partnership, eligible ahm members receive a free six-month National Pickleball League membership, along with exclusive perks and discounts to encourage participation.
A Sport for All Ages and Abilities
Pickleball’s accessibility is a major reason for its rapid expansion in Australia. The Australian Sports Commission estimates that around 90,000 people now play nationwide, a sharp increase from just 20,000 two years ago.
The National Pickleball League’s South Melbourne venue regularly hosts events, including school and corporate programs. Over the holiday season, nearly 100 Christmas parties included pickleball as a social activity.
With its inclusive nature, the sport continues to attract new players of all ages and skill levels. “If you’ve been looking for a level playing field in sport, pickleball is it,” Shell says.
News in Brief: National Pickleball League Expands
Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity in Australia, with participation soaring to 90,000 players. The National Pickleball League (NPL) is driving growth, backed by health fund ahm. CEO Ron Shell highlights the sport’s accessibility and social appeal. With pro seasons, sponsorships, and growing community interest, pickleball is set for further expansion.
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