The Cornell Pickleball Club secures a spot at the 2025 Collegiate National Championship after a strong performance at the New Jersey Super Regional. The event, held March 1-2 at Robbinsville Pickle House, saw Cornell win its group and advance to the quarterfinals, earning an invitation to the national tournament in Peachtree, Georgia, from April 11-13.
A Passion for Pickleball
Jason Cho ’27, from Atlanta, founded the club after discovering the sport in high school. Initially upset when his neighborhood basketball court was replaced with a pickleball court, Cho decided to try the game and quickly became hooked.
“Now, it totally consumes everything I do in sports,” said Cho, a hotel administration major at Cornell’s Nolan School of Hotel Administration.
Building a Competitive Team
Cornell’s team has rapidly grown into a competitive force. The club’s adviser, Sabel Bong, assistant director at the ILR School’s Office of Career Services, supports the team’s efforts and connects them with the larger pickleball community.
“I’m really proud of just where they came from and how much passion and enthusiasm they have.” – (Sabel Bong)
The sport, once viewed as a pastime for seniors, has surged in popularity. With nearly 14 million players in the U.S., pickleball now has a national governing body and growing college-level competition.
Overcoming Challenges
Since the club is new, it lacks alumni funding and must find creative ways to finance travel. Rachel Zhang ’27, the club’s programming manager, helped arrange free lodging for the New Jersey Super Regional by hosting the team at her family’s home.
“My mom put down mattresses and made us breakfast each day. And now she’s asking how we’re going to get to Atlanta. She is super involved.” – (Rachel Zhang)
For nationals, Cho’s family in Atlanta will host the team, ensuring they can compete without worrying about hotel costs.
Growing the Sport at Cornell
Beyond competition, the club promotes pickleball on campus by hosting weekly open play sessions at Pickleball Mania in the Shops at Ithaca Mall. These gatherings attract many students eager to try the sport and build their skills.
With their spot at the Collegiate National Championship secured, the Cornell Pickleball Club looks forward to competing against top teams from around the country and continuing to expand their presence in the sport.
News in Brief: Cornell Pickleball Club
The Cornell Pickleball Club has earned a spot at the 2025 Collegiate National Championship after excelling at the New Jersey Super Regional. Led by Jason Cho ’27, the team has overcome financial challenges and grown quickly. They continue to promote the sport on campus while preparing for the national competition in April.
ALSO READ: New ACE Pickleball Club in Moorestown Moves Forward with Zoning Approval