Pickleball’s Introduction as a Varsity Sport: This school year, pickleball has been introduced as a varsity sport at all 25 high schools in the county. Offered through the corollary sports program, pickleball allows students with and without disabilities to participate in the game.
Cross-Generational Appeal
“What’s wonderful about pickleball, a lot of it is cross generational.” – (Robert Campbell)
Head varsity coach at Sherwood High School.
“When I started playing pickleball a couple of years ago, the average starting age was about 60, so it’s nice to actually see a younger demographic within pickleball.” – (Robert Campbell)
Innovative Program for Students
According to Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), the school system is the first in the nation to have pickleball as a varsity sport.
“brings people together in ways we’ve never seen before.” – (Adam Behnke)
D.C. Pickleball Team’s chief operating officer. Unlike football and soccer, parents can play pickleball with their children, he said.
The introduction of pickleball as a varsity sport highlights the school system’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation in athletics. The program aims to foster community and engagement among students, their families, and the broader community.
“They’re making history today, they’re trailblazers.” – (MCPS Systemwide Athletics Director Dr. Jeffrey Sullivan)
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Introduction as a Varsity Sport
Pickleball has been introduced as a varsity sport at all 25 high schools in Montgomery County, promoting inclusivity through a corollary sports program for students with and without disabilities.
As the first school system in the nation to offer pickleball at this level, MCPS aims to foster community engagement and cross-generational participation, allowing parents to play alongside their children.
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