In the realm of sports, one sport has recently had a spike in popularity. Pickleball has been noticed as one of the fastest growing sports in America.  

   According to USApicklaball.org, pickleball originated in the mid-1960s on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Pickleball was spent as a backyard pastime and quickly gained attraction within local communities and retirement centers. This unique sport combines the elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. 

   “I loved ping-pong, badminton, and tennis and pickleball is a combination of all three,” CCR teacher Danny Smith said

   Pickleball has been surging in popularity, with more than 5 million players in 2023. Those ages 6 through 17 make up 21.2 percent of pickleball players. Players under 24 had the fastest growth rate.

   “All of my friends were playing, so I decided to start playing,” senior Gage Magee said. 

   A unique aspect of pickleball is that players are paired up by skill rather than age or gender. It is often not common to see 14-year-olds competing with 40-year-olds. 

   “All ages can play because it is not hard on your joints.” Smith said. 

   Pickleball offers unique blends of strategies and skills. Magee describes his favorite key strategy is to  put spin on the ball when he hits it. 

   If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity, Lucedale has its own pickleball club that meets at the city park.