Dash ‘N Smash Pickleball Tournament Delta: The Delta Pickleball Association kicked off summer 2025 with the third annual Dash ‘N Smash tournament at Chalmers Park in North Delta, wrapping up six weeks of outreach to introduce residents to the sport. The tournament brought together nearly 250 players in men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles matches.
Over the course of the weekend, more than 250 matches were played. A student choir from Chalmers Elementary sang “O Canada” at the opening ceremony, led by Acting Mayor and Councillor Dylan Kruger. More than 100 medals were awarded, and players raised $340 and donated food to the South Delta Food Bank.
Fast Growth and Community Engagement
Pickleball is now the fastest-growing sport in North America, and the Delta Pickleball Association has experienced that growth firsthand. According to Landon Kitagawa, president of the association, “Less than 10 years ago, our club started with about 20 members. Today, we’re close to 900 — making us one of the largest pickleball clubs in Canada, and certainly one of the biggest sports organizations in Delta.”
Kitagawa added, “I hear every day how much people love the game, but also the community that has formed around it. People have found a reason to get off the couch, be active, and engage socially with others.”
Welcoming New Players to the Game
Led by player development director Jim Park, the club held beginner sessions to help new players feel comfortable and learn the game. “The feedback has been great,” said Jim Park. “Our goal was to help new members and those new to the sport feel comfortable and connected — both to the game and to the club.”
On May 27, DPA coaches visited Chalmers Elementary School for the second year in a row. Four classes of students from grades 2 to 5 walked to Chalmers Park, where they received hands-on instruction. Greg Ng, the school’s physical education teacher, said, “There were a lot of smiles when the students started putting together rallies. At the end of each session, they gave a loud ‘thank you’ before heading back to class.”
A Successful Start with More to Come
The success of the Dash ‘N Smash tournament and the group’s outreach events show how much pickleball has grown in Delta. With rising interest, strong community support, and continued school partnerships, the Delta Pickleball Association plans to keep expanding its programs in the coming months.
News in Brief: Dash ‘N Smash Pickleball Tournament Delta
The Delta Pickleball Association hosted its Dash ‘N Smash tournament at Chalmers Park, with nearly 250 players competing. The group also introduced new players to the sport and visited Chalmers Elementary for a school clinic. More than $300 and food donations were collected for the South Delta Food Bank.
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