Pickleball Courts in Massachusetts Schools: Pickleball’s rapid growth across the U.S. has sparked interest in making it an official high school sport in Massachusetts. However, despite growing popularity and student demand, the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) has twice rejected proposals to add pickleball to its list of 33 sanctioned high school sports.
Pickleball’s Rise and Current Status
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. As of 2024, about 20 million people in the U.S. have played the sport, marking a 311% rise over the past few years. In Massachusetts, some schools are testing pickleball at the varsity level, but a statewide league is yet to form.
Currently, eleven high school teams in Western Massachusetts are piloting a varsity pickleball program. This initiative could lay the groundwork for a future statewide league if it gains traction.
Season and Scheduling Challenges
Deciding which season pickleball would fit into is complex. It cannot be played during the winter due to the weather, and spring is already packed with tennis. Therefore, fall is the most logical choice.
Sharing courts is another challenge. Tennis already uses courts heavily in the spring. Adding pickleball teams would strain available court time. Many schools would need to use existing tennis courts with added pickleball lines to accommodate both sports.
Student Interest Growing
Interest among students is clear. Ava Friese, a Junior in the class of 2026, said, “[pickleball] is for sure trending right now. I would definitely sign up and play; I’m sure others would too!”
While MIAA argues that pickleball is currently more of a club sport, its decision mirrors past situations. Rugby was once a club sport but became an official high school sport in 2016 after similar efforts.
Facilities and Accessibility
One argument against adding pickleball is the lack of specialized courts. But like tennis, pickleball can be played on existing hard courts with added lines. This minimizes costs and makes it easier for schools to adopt the sport. Many students already play informally. Graduate of the 2024 class, Malina Dinis, said,
“I have played a lot with my Dad and his friends…It is something that is super fast paced and works on reflexes!! [pickleball] is super easy to pick up…even if they’ve never played a racquet sport before.” – (Malina Dinis)
A Sport for Life
Pickleball stands out because it is accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Unlike football or soccer, players don’t need a full team to participate. A paddle, ball, and a partner are enough to enjoy the game.
This lifelong appeal adds value. Students can continue playing well into adulthood. It also encourages fitness and social connection, providing benefits beyond the high school years.
Benefits Beyond Competition
Introducing pickleball in high schools offers many benefits. It promotes physical activity and teaches valuable life skills such as teamwork, cooperation, and quick thinking.
Ethan Love shared, “pickleball is fun! It’s a great way to get in some exercise while spending time with friends. Honestly, I would say that it’s a positive across the board.”
Looking Ahead
The future of pickleball as a high school sport in Massachusetts remains uncertain. Gaining official recognition depends on expanding club participation and demonstrating sustained interest statewide.
In the meantime, individual schools with strong student interest can start clubs or informal groups to foster local enthusiasm. As participation grows, so does the chance that Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association may eventually approve pickleball as an official sport.
If the statewide interest continues to rise, adding pickleball to high school athletics in Massachusetts seems like a natural next step. With courts already in place, a strong student following, and the sport’s numerous benefits, many believe it is only a matter of time.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts in Massachusetts Schools
Pickleball is rapidly growing in the U.S., with 20 million players nationwide. Massachusetts high schools are piloting varsity programs, but the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association has not yet sanctioned the sport statewide. Strong student interest and accessible facilities suggest pickleball could soon become an official high school sport in the state.
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