On this Saturday afternoon in San Juan Capistrano, the pickleball courts are buzzing. The sun blazes overhead, laughter echoes across the concrete, and the pop! pop! pop! of pickleball paddles form a repetitive soundtrack.
The stereotypical “pickler” — the term for pickleball players — might be a silver-haired senior, but the truth is it’s a mix of ages out there, from the regulars who’ve been playing since forever to newbies just figuring out the game. But there’s also a new energy in the air, brought by teenagers who totally own the sport. Judging by their huge smiles, it’s safe to say that this generation is taking over the courts — and having a blast doing it.
Youth movement
According to data released last year by the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP), there are 36.5 million pickleball players in the United States. The sport isn’t new; it was invented way back around 1965 on Bainbridge Island, off Seattle. But its popularity has soared over the past decade — growing more than 223% over the last three years alone. And, currently, the largest age bracket of pickleball players is between 18 and 34. It’s clearly no longer an “old person’s sport.”
In Southern California, much like other parts of the country, pickleball is flourishing, fueled by the passion and talent of young athletes. Orange County in particular has become a hotbed for teenage pickleball players, who are drawn to the sport’s unique blend of athleticism, strategy and social connection. Schools, community centers and private clubs have embraced the pickleball craze, offering lessons, clinics and tournaments that cater to players of all levels.
The icon of young players across the nation is Florida resident Anna Leigh Waters, who’s been called a teenage prodigy and has taken the pickleball world by storm. Now 17, she went pro as a 12 year old. Waters’ aggressive playing style, marked by powerful serves and lightning-fast reflexes, has earned her numerous pro championships and a reputation as one of the sport’s most promising young talents. Her success serves as an inspiration for aspiring players throughout the region, especially those who also entertain the dream of becoming a pickleball pro.
Last year, Waters made more than a million dollars in sponsorships and endorsements, and that seems to be one of the draws for teenagers — they see the potential for money and fame.
Serving up hope
Combining pickleball with charitable events has turned into a winning combination. MaxLove Project, an OC nonprofit that is dedicated to improving the quality of life for families facing childhood cancers and pediatric rare diseases, has incorporated pickleball tournaments as a way to support its fundraising efforts.
Iain Foshay, who is on the organization’s board, worked to create the Junior Board to assist with fundraising, and now serves as their mentor. He credits the teens for the idea of adding pickleball to their roster of events. “It has become a grassroots way to spread the word about the charity, and has grown organically,” he says.
A student at San Juan Hills High School in San Juan Capistrano, Addison Klein is the founder of MaxLove Project’s Pickleball Club, which she founded last year. In 2022, her sister Kaitlin, a Junior Board member, had started the MaxLove Project Club her senior year. But the club didn’t receive a lot of support because not that many people knew about the charity. “After she graduated, I decided to add the pickleball aspect to draw more students in,” Klein says.
Her instinct was spot on — not only has the Junior Board grown from a handful of kids to about 18, the pickleball club has also gained momentum. “We have monthly events held in a classroom at school where we discuss volunteer opportunities for MaxLove and organize pickleball events at local courts,” she says.
More than just a game
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The appeal of pickleball for teenagers is multifaceted. The sport’s fast-paced action and strategic elements provide a mental and physical challenge that resonates with young athletes. The social aspect of pickleball is equally important, fostering camaraderie and friendships among players who share a passion for the game. Pickleball is an inclusive sport that welcomes players of all abilities, and the buy-in is pretty affordable — you can find a paddle and balls for less than $50.
“My favorite thing about pickleball is the competitive aspect,” Klein says. “I love the feeling of getting the point after an intense rally with my friends.”
She also likes the convenience factor. “I think the reason more and more teens are drawn to pickleball is because it’s so accessible and easy to organize. I live in an area where there are at least 10 different courts within a five-mile radius. Also, it only requires four players, so in a group of around 20 people, it’s not hard to get a game together.”
Klein feels that “it’s just a really fun sport and it brings people together in a way that has so many benefits. I think it’s really important for developing teens to be active, get out in the sun, and ultimately have fun.”