Pickleball Fever Hits IAHS: Rising Itawamba Agricultural High School junior Helen Davis, already known for her prowess on the tennis and soccer teams, is now making waves by introducing recreational pickleball to IAHS. Her initiative comes at a time when pickleball, a blend of tennis, table tennis, and badminton, is rapidly gaining popularity across the United States.
The Fastest Growing Sport in the U.S.
Pickleball’s appeal has skyrocketed, with the sport growing 223.5% over the past three years, according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association. This surge in interest hasn’t missed Itawamba County. Last fall, Itawamba Community College inaugurated new pickleball courts, welcoming both the community and students. Watching her peers enjoy the game at ICC sparked an idea in Davis’s mind—a vision to share her love for racket sports with her own school.
With the backing of IAHS principal Dr. Karen Gray, Davis embarked on a fundraising mission. She organized t-shirt sales and accepted donations, channeling her efforts towards acquiring portable pickleball nets. Her determination paid off, and soon, her classmates at IAHS will be able to enjoy this burgeoning sport, thanks to Davis’s dedication and initiative.
A New Chapter for IAHS Athletics
Helen Davis’s efforts are not just about introducing a new sport; they’re about building community and encouraging an active lifestyle among her peers. By bringing pickleball to IAHS, Davis is adding a new dimension to the school’s athletic offerings and setting a precedent for student-led initiatives.
News in Brief: Pickleball Fever Hits IAHS
Rising junior Helen Davis is making an impact at Itawamba Agricultural High School by introducing pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., to her peers. Known for her skills in tennis and soccer, Davis was inspired by the new pickleball courts at Itawamba Community College. With support from IAHS principal Dr. Karen Gray, Davis raised funds through t-shirt sales and donations to buy portable pickleball nets for her school. Her efforts aim to promote community and active lifestyles, adding a new sport to IAHS’s athletic program and demonstrating the power of student-led initiatives.
