Pickleball continues to grow across the United States, and Dayton has become part of the trend. The Dayton Pickleball Club, formed in 2020, brings together players of all ages and skill levels. Members meet several times a week on two local courts, proving that the sport’s popularity shows no signs of slowing.
A Community of Players
The Dayton Pickleball Club is free to join and has no dues. Members describe it as a group of people who love playing rather than a formal organization.
“We love pickleball and we are a family,” Rhonda Bovine said. “As far as growing the game together and meeting people, it’s been amazing and nothing can compete with it. Not my bridge club, not my dinner club, not my book club, none of that, because these people are really special.”
When and Where They Play
The group meets at two locations: courts near the splash pad close to downtown on First Avenue and courts on Alabama Avenue. The Alabama Avenue courts are lighted, making them a popular evening option.
Most players meet Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, while others gather Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Competitive men’s and women’s groups often play Saturday mornings.
“It’s addicting,” Bovine said. “You always just want one more game.”
New and Longtime Players
Esther Stocks started playing during COVID and didn’t expect to continue. Five years later, she is still active in the sport.
“We could not interact with each other outside and be safe and be active,” Stocks said. “I came out because I was asked to play and I was going to play it once and quit. But I really like the game and I like the people.”
Growth of Courts and Facilities
Much of the local growth began when Wayne Renter pushed for new courts. Under then–parks director Nathan Fort, underused tennis courts were converted into pickleball courts on First Avenue and later on Alabama Avenue.
Cleveland offers indoor courts at Revolve Pickleball, and Dayton plans a major expansion at Tinsley Park. A $1 million project will expand Tinsley’s courts from six to 26, including eight covered courts.
Competition and Travel
Some members compete at high levels, including Rhonda Bovine and Carol Ann Barron, who played at the National Senior Games in Iowa earlier this year.
“It was a great experience,” Bovine said. “We met people from everywhere they were really nice. That’s a common denominator among pickleballers, they are friendly and they are happy to be out there. We had so much fun.”
A Sport for All Ages
While many older adults enjoy the game, younger people are also getting involved. Families join evening games, and even Bryan College’s Tracy Davidson is part of the club.
“Old people need something to do in Dayton,” Bovine said. “There is very little for old people and this is a way to do something fun and be active in a community where there is very little for old people to do. Younger people started coming. Young families come in the evening. This is the one thing that older people can still do and have fun.”
National Surge in Popularity
Pickleball has seen rapid growth across the U.S. According to the Associated Press, the sport’s participation has jumped 223% in the past three years. The Sports & Fitness Industry Association reports 19.8 million players nationwide in 2024, a 45.8% increase from 2023.
News in Brief: Dayton Pickleball Club Surge
The Dayton Pickleball Club, formed in 2020, welcomes players of all ages at courts on First Avenue and Alabama Avenue. Members describe it as a friendly, family-like group. The city plans to expand facilities at Tinsley Park. Pickleball participation has surged nationally, reaching 19.8 million players in 2024.
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