Cornell’s Pickleball Pioneers: The Cornell Pickleball Club is heading to the Collegiate National Championship this weekend in Peachtree, Georgia. After a strong showing at the New Jersey Super Regional in March, the new club earned a spot at nationals in its very first season.
The club, started by Cornell student Jason Cho, was formed this year to bring students together through the fast-growing sport. Though still new, the team has already seen big success. At the Super Regional, Cornell won its group and made it to the quarterfinals.
A Fast Rise in Upstate New York
Pickleball has grown quickly in the U.S., and now it’s catching on at colleges. Cho started the club to build a community around the sport at Cornell.
“I think my favorite aspect of pickleball is that it really includes everyone as young as 12 or even people in their 60s, 70s, 80s can be great pickleball players. There’s no other sport that allows this.” – (Jason Cho)
From New Jersey to Georgia
The team’s quarterfinal finish at the New Jersey Super Regional earned them an invitation to the national tournament.
“We got the email saying we got a bid and we absolutely erupted at the table,” said Rachel Zhang, a player on the team. “I couldn’t even put it into words. It was so awesome to hear considering we are such a new club.”
While the team is aiming high, they are also focused on enjoying the experience.
“I think it lets us go in saying ‘at least we’re going to have fun, make some friends from wherever school across the country.’” – (cho)
“It’s so amazing how we can all connect over this fun little sport and we just have so much fun together.” – (Zhang)
Looking Ahead
This weekend’s championship marks a big moment for Cornell’s team. Win or lose, the tournament gives the club national exposure and a chance to meet players from across the country. With a strong first year behind them, Cornell’s pickleball club looks ready for a bright future.
News in Brief: Cornell’s Pickleball Pioneers
The Cornell Pickleball Club is heading to nationals this weekend in Peachtree, Georgia, after a strong finish at the New Jersey Super Regional. Formed this year by student Jason Cho, the team has quickly found success and is ready to compete—and connect—at the Collegiate National Championship.
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