Why Play Pickleball?

  • Sociability: Doubles is the norm, with rotation of partners between games, so friendships form quickly. Players mix up so you get to play with many different people and styles of play

  • Fast learning curve: Beginners can reach a satisfying level of play after only a few games. Equipment is relatively low cost.

  • Action and fun: You know there is a game nearby from the distinctive “clack” of ball on racquet. You also know because there is lots of cheering and howling for good/bad shots, along with laughter and friendly trash talk.

  • Exercise: While the game is fun and social, most folks get a serious workout with running, jumping, swinging, lunging, slamming, lobbing and “dinking”, all while smiling.

  • Accessibility: Seasoned players can enjoy a fun game with novice friends or family on CCTPA courts that are easily set up and taken down.

  • Rallys: Most “points” involve a rally with “hits” from all players, thanks to the underhand serve and the “no-volley” zone at the net.

History of Pickleball

The game of Pickleball began in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Mr Joel Pritchard (US Senator) had dispatched his children to “amuse themselves” which they did with a half-mast badmitton net, ping-pong paddles and a wiffle ball. Next morning Mr Pritchard, upon hearing howling and laughter, joined Mom and the kids for a full family game. The group quickly organized special rules for underhand serve and “no-volley zone” near the net to “level the field” for height, age, power, etc.

The game caught on quickly and is now the fastest growing sport in the country with a total of 9 million players, having doubled in the past year (2022). National tournaments are well attended and highly competitive, with prize money and ranked players. Yet the sport remains highly accessible and appealing for players of all ages and ability.

In our tiny town of Grand Marais, we have a core of 20 who play almost daily, with another 40 occasional players, including drop-in visitors throughout the summer. In Summer 2022, we hosted an “International Event” with players from Thunder Bay and Duluth. In the last few years, we have hosted summer and winter pickleball “international” tournaments with players from Thunder Bay and Duluth