Colleges Invest in Pickleball: Pickleball is transforming from a casual campus activity to a key part of college sports programs. Schools across the nation are investing millions to build new courts, making the sport a vital aspect of student life.
Alabama Leads the Way
The University of Alabama is the latest school to make a significant investment. As part of a $75 million expansion for student services, Alabama is adding 10 new pickleball courts to the Parker-Haun Tennis facility.
This move comes in response to overwhelming student demand. The $1.6 million project is funded through the ETF Advancement and Technology appropriation, likely from Alabama’s Education Trust Fund (ETF).
Other Schools Following Suit
Other universities are also making strides in pickleball facilities. Florida International University (FIU) is set to break ground on its first on-campus pickleball courts, driven by a club that has grown to over 400 members.
The University of Miami is constructing four new pickleball-only courts, separating the space from intramural tennis. Cal State LA plans to open four new courts this semester, offering free paddle rentals to students.
Scottsdale Community College is partnering with the city to open its campus courts to the public, adding six new courts available daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department helped finance these courts to enhance public access to recreational spaces.
Competitive Pickleball’s Rise
This construction rise isn’t just for casual play; it is also paving the way for competitive pickleball. The newly launched Collegiate Pickleball Tour (CPT) will host 30 regionals, 8 super regionals, and 2 major championships this year at college campuses.
Schools investing in courts now aim to become future powerhouses in a sport gaining national recognition. As new courts appear from Alabama to California, it is clear that colleges are not just adding pickleball; they are betting on its future.
News in Brief: Colleges Invest in Pickleball
Colleges are heavily investing in new pickleball courts, with the University of Alabama leading the way. Schools like FIU and the University of Miami are also expanding facilities to meet growing student interest. This surge supports competitive pickleball’s rise in college athletics.
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