Pickleball Origin and Global Rise: Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports today, began in 1965 as a backyard game created by Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell. It started as a way to keep their families entertained and has since grown into a sport played by millions around the world.
A Simple Beginning in 1965
The story of pickleball began in Bainbridge Island, Washington. Congressman Joel Pritchard and businessman Bill Bell came up with a new game using spare sports equipment lying around. They created the game with their families in mind, using a badminton court, ping-pong paddles, and a wiffle ball.
Their goal was to make something fun and easy that the whole family could play together.
The First Tournament in 1976
Pickleball quickly gained popularity in nearby communities. In 1976, the first pickleball tournament occurred at the South Center Athletic Club in Tukwila, Washington. The event brought players together to compete in a new sport that was easy to learn and exciting to play.
USA Pickleball Association Forms in 1984
To help pickleball grow across the country, the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) was founded in 1984. This organization aimed to support the sport’s expansion, create rules, and bring more attention to it on a national level.
Played in Every U.S. State by 1990
Just six years after the USAPA was formed, pickleball was being played in all 50 U.S. states. Parks, schools, and community centers added pickleball courts, and more people of all ages started playing.
National Tournament Launches in 2009
In 2009, the USAPA held its first official National Tournament in Arizona. The event welcomed players from around the country, regardless of age. This tournament marked a big step in bringing more competitive and organized play to the sport.
News in Brief: Pickleball Origin and Global Rise
Pickleball, created by Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell in 1965, began as a family game. Over the years, it has grown rapidly. Key events include its first tournament in 1976, the start of the USAPA in 1984, and the first national tournament in 2009. Today, it’s played in all 50 states.
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