The third annual Metro 911 Pickleball Tournament was held this weekend in Nitro, West Virginia, drawing more than 300 players from 15 states. Organizer John Rutherford said the event has grown quickly from just 100 players in its first year. The tournament brings together players of all ages and skill levels for fun and friendly competition.
“We started off the first year with about a hundred participants. Now, we have over 300 participants. They are from 15 different states, and 60% of the participants are out of the Kanawha Valley.” – (John Rutherford)
Growing Popularity and Community Spirit
John Rutherford explained that 60% of participants come from outside the Kanawha Valley, with players traveling from places like Morgantown, Fairmont, Huntington, Weirton, and Mingo County. He said the event has become more about building community than just winning games.
“You meet so many people, you play hard for the games going on, you give it everything, you try to beat the other team. But as soon as it’s over you shake hands you socialize.” – (John Rutherford)
“People from Morgantown, Fairmont, Huntington, Weirton, down in Mingo County. We got all over the state coming into play today.” – (John Rutherford)
According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, nearly 20 million people played pickleball in the mid-Atlantic region in 2023, showing how quickly the sport is growing.
Local Voices Call for More Courts
Linda Holmes, a player from Huntington, said she switched to pickleball from tennis because it is fun and suits players of all ages. She noted that the sport’s popularity has grown so much in Huntington that more courts are needed.
“This gives me the ability to still be a participant with a paddle and a ball. It’s enjoyable and it transcends ages so everybody can play.” – (Linda Holmes)
“It has exploded. Our demand has superseded and exceeded our courts. That’s one of the things we hope that can change in Huntington and have something similar to this.” – (Linda Holmes)
A Sport That Brings People Together
The Metro 911 Pickleball Tournament shows how the sport is creating a strong sense of community. Players compete hard but also enjoy socializing and meeting new people. The event’s growth suggests pickleball will continue to be an important part of the region’s sports scene.
News in Brief: Metro 911 Pickleball Tournament
The Metro 911 Pickleball Tournament in Nitro attracted over 300 players from 15 states this year. Organizer John Rutherford praised the event’s growth and community spirit. Linda Holmes called for more pickleball courts in Huntington due to rising demand. The sport’s popularity keeps increasing in the region.
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