SEMO Pickleball Club Campus Launch: The Southeast Missouri State University Pickleball Club held its first event on Thursday, August 28, at The Pickleball Factory in Cape Girardeau. The launch drew a full crowd, filling all nine courts with students and community members, as the sport continues to rise in popularity on college campuses.
Strong Turnout for First Event
The new club’s first open play session exceeded expectations. Graduate student and club president Kaiyu Atsumi said the crowd was larger than planned.
“We had our first event Thursday night at the Factory, we filled nine courts, more than I expected. Good to see everyone enjoying playing pickleball,” (Kaiyu Atsumi ).
Growing Sport on Campuses
Pickleball, which mixes tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has quickly grown on college campuses across the country. The game is popular because it is easy to learn, social, and fun for players at all levels. National organizations now run competitive leagues, offering students chances to play at higher levels.
Kaiyu Atsumi shared his goals for the new club.
“My goal as president of this club is to create a second home for SEMO students and compete at the highest level of college pickleball play,” (Kaiyu Atsumi).
Building Community Through Play
The launch event included not only students but also people from the larger Cape Girardeau community. The mix of players showed how the sport brings together different groups. Atsumi said he enjoys the game because it allows constant growth.
“The reason why I enjoy the game is that I can see improvement, developing new skills, getting better with each day. My hope is to bring the social and competitive collegiate pickleball world to SEMO and the greater Cape!”(Kaiyu Atsumi)
Looking Ahead
The strong start signals that the SEMO Pickleball Club could become an important part of student life. With its focus on both social play and competition, the club hopes to connect students while also representing the university in collegiate leagues.
News in Brief: SEMO Pickleball Club Campus Launch
The Southeast Missouri State University Pickleball Club launched on August 28 with a packed event at The Pickleball Factory in Cape Girardeau. All nine courts were filled with students and community members. Club president Kaiyu Atsumi said the goal is to build community and compete in college pickleball.
ALSO READ: Suntree Residents Rally to Revive Jack Mahon Park with New Pickleball Courts Amid Community Outcry