“ The outdoor pickleball courts in the area, coupled with the ease of entry into the sport have been key to the increase in popularity of pickleball in Blount County,” says Kelly Smith, Pickleville’ s co-founder and current co-owner, as well as a certified PPA Pickleball instructor.“ Organizations like the Smoky Mountain Pickleball Club have also played a key role in connecting pickleball players in the area. In that regard, it’ s provided a sense of community. Pickleville has added to that popularity by offering indoor courts which eliminate the hazards of wind, rain, sun, heat and cold. With daily tournaments, lessons, clinics and open play offered every day, Pickleville has allowed players of all levels and varying interests to have access to not only reliable indoor play but also to a pickleball community of new friends.”
Smith added that it takes only a minimal investment in time and money to get started.“ New players can find early success the very first time they play,” he added. Early improvement is obvious and noticeable even after playing the first few times. That encourages players to keep coming back. Once players keep coming back, that sense of community takes hold and provides additional encouragement to continue participating.”
Smith also noted that there are health benefits that come with playing the game, including physical fitness and an overall sense of happiness, optimism and shared community.
“ I love the game because it’ s exciting and good exercise,” pickleball enthusiast Bob Brusie said.“ Plus the social side of it is something that I really cherish. I’ ve made a lot of new friends playing this game.”
“ Anyone can play pickleball and experience the joy of playing at whatever level is comfortable to them,” Smith said.“ Pickleball has several levels of playing skills. Most people fall within the 3.5 skill range which offers lots of playing opportunities for people of all ages and physical ability.
Smoky Mountain Pickleball Club President Alisa Cherry concurs.“ As a former tennis coach, the sport was easy for me to learn. Plus, it’ s great exercise and so much fun. I’ ve met so many wonderful people within this growing community.”
She added that the Smoky Mountain Pickleball Club holds two tournaments a year, one in the fall and one in the spring. There’ s also ample opportunity to socialize with a Halloween party and a holiday party, both of which offer further chances together with friends, meet new people, and of course, play more pickleball.
For more information on the Smoky Mountain Pickleball Club go to https:// www. smokymountainpickleball. org / or their Facebook page https:// www. facebook. com / smokymountainpickleball.
FALL 2025 • BLOUNT COUNTY QUARTERLY | 5