Where To Get Your Pickleball Fix: Still A Big ‘Dill’

Pickleball mania has been sweeping the nation these past few years and the areas east of the Cooper have been swept up in the burgeoning craze. An estimated 36.5 million Americans played pickleball last year according to the 2023 APP Pickleball Participation Report. One of the fastest growing sports in the country, this hybrid paddle game combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong.

While pickleball has a professional player circuit with national tournaments and prize money, most people enjoy it as a recreational and social activity. It’s easy to learn the rules and fun to play and involves less running and is more forgiving on the joints than tennis, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Although it’s a low-impact exercise, pickleball provides health benefits such as improved hand-eye coordination, balance and cardiovascular health. You’re moving around on a smaller court, sure, but you’re still active and getting your blood pumping. And research shows that exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and reduce stress.

You don’t have to invest in a lot of equipment either. All you need is a paddle, a plastic ball and a badminton-size court to start a match. Like tennis, it can be played in a singles or doubles format. Games are played to 11 points, and you must win by two. If you’re new to pickleball and ready to discover what the hype is all about and give this popular sport a try, or just a regular looking for courts near you, there are plenty of places to play east of the Cooper, whether you live in Mount Pleasant or on one of the islands.

Below is a guide listing places where you can find outdoor and indoor pickleball courts in the area. And if you want to play pickleball while supporting a great cause, Mount Pleasant nonprofit East Cooper Community Outreach will be hosting its annual charity pickleball tournament, the Big Dill, from June 14-16 at Collins Park in North Charleston. The event includes a senior tournament with mixed, men’s and women’s doubles.

By Colin McCandless