OKR Shapes Presentation

History, Future, and Benefits

Pickleball

The Journey of Pickleball

Have you ever wanted to play a sport that's easy to learn, fun for all ages, and growing faster than any other in the U.S.? If so, you’re in the right place!

Where Did It Come From?

• Today, I’ll be discussing the history, future, and benefits of pickleball.
• I’ll also explain how pickleball gained popularity so quickly.

Just five years ago, pickleball was relatively unknown to many people. Suddenly, pickleball is everywhere. How did this rapid rise in popularity happen?

The Growth of Pickleball and how It got Here

• Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide.
• Although it’s gaining popularity now, it’s not a new sport and has been around for a while.
• Pickleball is now making waves in the racket sports world.
• Many people are familiar with or have played pickleball.
• Not everyone knows how pickleball gained its rapid popularity.

Where It All Started

• "Pickleball was invented in 1965 by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum." (USA Pickleball)
• The game originally began in their backyard.
• The first permanent pickleball court was built in the backyard of Pritchard’s friend, Bob O’Brian.
• Pickleball draws inspiration from ping pong, tennis, and badminton.

USA Pickleball

These initial steps paved the way for what is now the fastest-growing sport in the world. After creating the game, the founders formed a corporation to protect and promote it, which became USA Pickleball. Today, USA Pickleball boasts 78,766 members and 50,003 courts across the United States. Impressive as these numbers are, the future of pickleball promises to be even more remarkable.

The Future

• In 2022, the global pickleball market was valued at $1.32 billion. The market is expected to reach $2.37 billion by 2028, nearly doubling in just four years (North State Resurfacing).

• This growth indicates that pickleball is far from a passing trend.
• Organizations like USA Pickleball and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) are playing a key role in the sport's growth.
• Pro tournaments are now being televised, making the future of pickleball look incredibly promising.

Equipment Sales

• Pickleball’s rapid growth is driving a surge in equipment sales.
• Several paddle companies have reported significant increases in the sales of paddles and balls.
• This trend is expected to continue as the sport continues to expand.
• Now that you know the history and future of pickleball, let me share the benefits of playing.

The Benefits

There are so many great benefits when playing pickleball I'm not even sure where to begin. For starters, it's an excellent cardio workout, great for heart health, and a social sport.

Healthy and Social

• Pickleball is a beginner-friendly sport that’s easy to learn and a fun way to stay active.
• It provides great cardio benefits similar to other racket sports but is much easier and more enjoyable.
• Studies show that pickleball is good for your heart, helping to lower cholesterol and blood pressure (Anytime Fitness).
• Beyond physical health, pickleball fosters social connections and builds community, as seen on local courts.
• Pickleball is quickly becoming a global phenomenon.

Final Thoughts

People of all ages are getting hooked on pickleball due to its simplicity and fun. As one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide, it's making a major impact on racket sports. With a rich history and a promising future, pickleball also offers numerous benefits. Thank you for joining me today—I hope you now have a better understanding of the sport, its origins, and its bright future, along with the many perks of playing pickleball!

Thanks!