With the start of the new year comes new year resolutions. One of the most heard is to “get into shape.” Some individuals try yoga, while others have invested themselves in cardio. But the newest version of physical activity that’s taken over the City of Soldotna is none other than Pickle Ball.
According to Brandon Mackie, the co-founder of Pickleheads, pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in America over the past three years.
While the largest age group who play pickleball is 18-34, the fastest growing age group is 18-24.
“…Somewhere between 10 and 40 million people played in the US last year, which would make it larger than tennis or basketball goal by participation, which is pretty amazing that came out of nowhere,” said Mackie.
Searches for pick-up games in the City of Soldotna have doubled over the past year, which Mackie says is “pretty exciting.”
But while the searches for pickleball courts are on the rise, there lies another difficulty. After all, it’s hard to play without opponents to face.
Mackie explains that part of the reason why Pickleheads was founded was for the sole purpose of helping individuals connect with other players, all while finding a court within the area. Hence, creating the website was the perfect way to solve both problems at once.
From there, all it takes is learning the sport, making friends, and having some fun.
“You can learn the game in a single timeout, unlike golf or tennis, you might have to take months or years of lessons. And I think that’s motivating for people when they go out and can win the first time on the court. And number two is the social nature of the sport, typically play in large formats where you’re switching partners, and just a lot of opportunity to socialize and he does the area,” says Mackie.
To look for a court to play pickleball, click here!
