The Pickle Ball Phenomenon By Addison Caddell
Pickle Ball is the fastest growing sport in the country and will continue to grow in popularity because of its low impact—all ages appeal. Although, low impact may be the wrong choice of words considering some take this game very seriously.
The pickle ball trend has reached Hopkins County and has taken over as a favorite pastime for so many. There are groups that play every day either at the Rock or at Sulphur Springs High School tennis courts. As Mandi Mitchell has stated, “pickle ball is life” and she shares this passion with so many people in Sulphur Springs.
The “OG’s” as Mandi says, recommends that people looking to get into pickle ball should watch a YouTube video to familiarize themselves with the rules of the game. However, the rules are super simple, and the game is very easy to pick up on for recreational play.
Pickle Ball is a game that combines tennis, badminton, and ping pong. The sport can be played one on one or with a partner to play doubles. All you need is a plastic wiffle ball, wooden paddles, and a court with a net. However, in Sulphur Springs the only thing holding back a full-on pickle ball takeover is the lack of public courts.
A news report from Business Insider says that “25,000 new courts are needed to keep up with the demand.” Pickle Ball has grown over 159% in the last three years. So, building courts in Sulphur Springs would be a great addition to our town and would provide the space for Pickleball to grow in both recreational play and tournament play.
With new courts and the growing population of pickle ball fanatics, there would be a great opportunity to benefit from the new courts. Many towns including Rockwall, Royce City and Dallas, host tournaments as well as corporate and smaller events like birthdays to generate popularity and revenue for the new courts.
Pickle ball is growing and so is our town. Incorporating courts would inspire a new active way to enjoy community for all ages and athletic ability. Playing pickleball as a recreational activity can also promote physical fitness, social interaction, and a sense of community making it the perfect addition to our town. Pickleball is easy to learn and super fun to play! Building new courts in Sulphur Springs will allow all pickle ball enthusiasts the space to enjoy the most popular growing sport in America!
