DePaul University’s pickleball club is bringing new players to the fast-growing sport. Since starting in January 2024, the club has doubled in size. Members meet on indoor pickleball courts near campus to play, learn, and enjoy friendly competition. The club welcomes all skill levels and offers a fun way to stay active and meet people.
Pickleball’s Rise and Club Formation
Pickleball is a relatively new sport to many. It began in 1965 as a mix of ping-pong and badminton but stayed small for decades. The sport became popular nationwide during the COVID-19 pandemic when people needed safe ways to exercise and socialize.
In Chicago, there are 57 public pickleball courts, mostly outdoors. DePaul’s club was formed to bring this growing sport to students who wanted an organized way to play on campus. Farren Lesko, a marketing and sports business student and club founder, said,
“Growing up, I would play a lot with my parents. I thought it was really fun, and DePaul was missing that. They had club tennis, so I thought club pickleball would be a great way to bring people together, have fun, be active and make new friends.” – (Farren Lesko)
“Even if you have never picked up a pickleball paddle in your life, come out. It’s all about learning, step by step.” – (Farren Lesko)
Club Culture and Player Experiences
The club meets on indoor pickleball courts in Lincoln Park and has attracted players of all backgrounds. Many members are new to pickleball. Freshman anthropology major Echo O’Leary shared,
“I joined with no pickleball experience, but it was really easy to learn the ropes and how the game works. I’m still learning, but it’s been really fun to play.” – (Echo O’Leary)
Some members have more experience. Junior film and television major Matthew Chapin said,
“I played tennis my whole life. (Pickleball is) super easy to pick up, and everyone is super nice. It’s a great group of people. I hang out with people outside of the club. Anyone looking to join, don’t be intimidated. It’s a lot of fun.” – (Matthew Chapin)
Sophomore finance major Om Patel enjoys the social side.
“I love the fact that I’m on campus and interacting with other people in a non-educational setting. I’ve made a couple of friends and I’m doing something I enjoy at the same time, so it all works out perfectly.” – (Om Patel)
Junior chemistry major Quan Tran appreciates the game’s balance.
“I love to play sports, and pickleball has been one of my favorites. It demands less running than tennis but still requires a lot of skills and stamina.” – (Quan Tran)
Looking Ahead for the Club
The club plans to grow further under new leadership. Matthew Chapin will become president in the fall and hopes to take the group to more tournaments.
“Next year, we want to go to more events. Organizing travel can be hard … but I think it will make it a lot more fun.” – (Matthew Chapin)
Players value pickleball’s wide appeal. Computer science major Ayaan Faruqui noted, “Anybody from the age of 10 to the age of 80” can play.
“I (played) for one year before joining. I like getting a workout in, improving my own game and playing with my friends.” – (Ayaan Faruqui)
Patel summed up the game’s simple charm,
“It’s just fun. I enjoy hitting a ball with a paddle.” – (Om Patel)
DePaul’s pickleball club is helping the sport flourish on campus by making it welcoming and enjoyable for new and experienced players.
News in Brief: DePaul University’s Pickleball Club
DePaul University’s pickleball club started in January 2024 and has doubled in size. The club meets indoors and welcomes players of all skill levels. Pickleball’s popularity grew during the pandemic, and Chicago has many courts. Club members enjoy the social and active aspects, with plans to attend more tournaments.
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