Tampa is all in on the pickleball craze. You don’t have to look hard to find a league, tournament, club, or a court. And the appeal extends far beyond Florida. The decades-old sport’s popularity has surged in recent years. If you have yet to hop aboard the bandwagon, we’re here to help with four reasons why pickleball is cool.
It’s Easy to Learn
A little hand-eye coordination is all it takes to play pickleball recreationally. With low nets and relatively little ground to cover, thanks to the small courts, the path to playing at a passable level isn’t steep. Sure, you might not be turning pro anytime soon, but you’ll at least be able to hold your own.
It’s Social Distance-Friendly
Because you and your opponent are on opposite sides of the net, a social-distanced game of pickleball is very much a possibility. You could go the extra mile and play with gloves on. Be sure to holster some hand sanitizer, too!
It’s Cheap to Play
Entry-level pickleball gear won’t break the bank. You just need a paddle and a ball. Cheap sets are available online for as little as $20. You might even be able to score a killer deal on a paddle at a thrift store. As with any sport, the equipment can get pretty spendy as you step up the quality. Graphite paddle, anyone?
All-Ages Fun
“Picklers,” as pickleball devotees are often called, know no generational bounds. The sport’s attainable learning curve and easygoing pace makes it attractive to all ages. That makes it easy to find a partner to play with!
Where to Play in Tampa
Ready to hit the pickleball court? Gear up, study up on the lingo, and start playing today. For more fun things to do in and around Tampa, check out the Canopy at Citrus Park blog.