EDITOR’ S LETTER
Welcome to the July / August issue of Pickleball Magazine.
While pickleball initially gained traction and popularity among older adults, especially in retirement communities, the sport is experiencing a significant shift. Young players are now driving pickleball’ s massive explosion. Schools, colleges, and local clubs across the U. S. and globally are now embracing youth programs and competitive leagues.
Young adults and children are now pickleball’ s fastest-growing demographic, with nearly 2 million teens playing in 2024. Participation among the 13 to 17 age group has more than doubled in the past two years, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association( SFIA).
Gen Z( ages 13-28), who grew up with screens in their hands, are now replacing them with paddles in an effort to detox from digital.
More than ever, young people are seeking less screen time and more face‐to-face interaction— and the pickleball court is the perfect place for real-life connection that goes beyond the virtual exchange. Many even see the sport as a new way to socialize, with on-court meetups becoming a trend.
Pickleball also provides a good workout that gets the heart rate up without being overly strenuous or high impact, making it appealing for those who want a fun and enjoyable fitness option.
Don’ t miss Matthew Schwartz’ s article,“ Gen Z is Changing the Game,” on page 28. Schwartz profiles more than a dozen young talents who
represent the future of the sport. Keep swinging!
Gen Z in the NVZ( from l to r): Boone Casady, Leah Jones and Ford Casady. Photo by Eddie Alvarez
Julie Talerico Editorial Director
Tell Us What You Think!
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