USU Pickleball Club Climbs National Rankings: Ranked No. 7 in the nation by the latest Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating, the Utah State University (USU) club pickleball team is preparing for a competitive season with hopes of increasing its national presence. The team, built on community involvement and inclusivity, seeks to attract more players and gain recognition as an official collegiate sport.
Currently, the club has 38 registered members, welcoming players of all skill levels while maintaining a strong competitive focus. “We’re trying to cater to all levels of pickleball players,” said Olivia Phillips, athlete on the Division I team and officer in the pickleball club leadership.
“If you want to be social, hang out and learn the sport, we welcome that. But if you want to compete at a high level, we offer that too.” – (Olivia Phillips)
Competitive Edge and Collegiate Aspirations
To stay competitive, USU has formed a Division I team comprising select players who travel for tournaments nationwide. Among them are two online students, one from Tooele and another from Illinois, who train remotely and join the team at events.
“The pickleball team is a place for students to get involved with the pickleball community,” said club president Parker Eggli.
“Our goal is to have Utah State University represented at collegiate-level tournaments nationwide.” – (Parker Eggli)
Despite pickleball’s growing popularity, it remains a club sport at most universities, including USU. The team hopes to see it recognized as a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) sport in the future.
“That’s the goal for the future. Right now, like other universities, we’re still considered a club sport. But with pickleball being the fastest-growing sport in the nation, I wouldn’t be surprised if it became NCAA-sanctioned. That’s what we’re pushing for.” – (Parker Eggli)
Overcoming Challenges and Growing Awareness
Although pickleball is well-known in Utah, recruiting players remains a challenge due to a lack of awareness. Club leadership is actively working to increase visibility and encourage students to join.
“There’s a lot of talent out there. We’re always looking for recruits who can bring the heat in tournaments.” – (Parker Eggli)
Beyond competition, the sport fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment.
“You’ll go to courts and see top players welcoming people who have never picked up a paddle before. That’s what makes this sport so unique. It’s competitive, but also incredibly inviting.” – (Olivia Phillips)
Future of Collegiate Pickleball
Pickleball has surged in popularity since 2015, drawing professional players and young talent to the sport. Phillips believes now is the best time to get involved.
“We’re actively engaged in the community, competing in tournaments and even pursuing pickleball professionally.” – (Olivia Phillips)
As the sport grows, players see more opportunities for development and competition.
“We’re right on the tipping point of a lot of really big things. People don’t realize how high-caliber this sport really is. It takes just as much dedication, training and physicality as any other competitive sport.” – (Parker Eggli)
With former tennis professionals entering the game, the sport has become faster and more intense.
“When the game first started, it was more slow-paced. But now, with so many new players, including former tennis professionals, it’s getting faster and faster. You have to adapt.” – (Parker Eggli)
Breaking Stereotypes and Expanding Reach
Despite its growth, pickleball still fights misconceptions.
“A lot of people think of pickleball as an ‘old-person sport’. They don’t realize how dynamic and electric the environment is at these collegiate tournaments.” – (Olivia Phillips)
Thanks to sponsors like No Apologies Nutrition, Stack Athletics, and Montis Pickleball, the club can travel to tournaments and compete at a high level.
“It’s incredible to experience what other collegiate athletes go through. Having your teammates on the sidelines cheering after you hit a game-winning shot, moving to the next round or defeating a rival team — that energy is unmatched.” – (Parker Eggli)
Looking ahead, the club plans to host tournaments and collaborate with organizations like Picklr, the ARC, and the USU Tennis Club to strengthen its presence on campus.
“We plan to host tournaments in the future to get more people involved.” – (Parker Eggli)
“We’ve also looked at collaborations with Picklr, the ARC and even the USU Tennis Club to build a stronger presence on campus.” – (Olivia Phillips)
The ultimate goal is to establish USU as a dominant force in collegiate pickleball.
“Our goal is to make Utah State a known name in the sport. We want to be number one.” – (Parker Eggli)
News in Brief: USU Pickleball Club Climbs National Rankings
Ranked No. 7 in the nation, the Utah State University club pickleball team is pushing for more recognition in collegiate sports. With a mix of inclusivity and competitive spirit, the team aims to raise awareness, recruit new talent, and solidify its place as a powerhouse in the growing sport of pickleball.
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