July 2025

PICKLEBALL Pickleball continues to grow in popularity across community associations, bringing both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. In the following articles, we hear from two different communities as they share their journeys with pickleball, from the initial introduction of the sport to managing noise, space, and resident feedback. Each story offers valuable lessons and insights for associations considering how to incorporate this fast-growing sport into their communities.

Pickleball’s Popularity Fuels Active Boomers By Bob Zyontz, Regency at Monroe Homeowners Association

D espite its unusual name, pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America for the fourth straight year according to the 2025 Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) Participation Report. The game’s popularity is having a transformative effect on baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964. Pickleball has immense appeal to seniors living in adult communities. It blends a low-impact, easy-to-learn game with social engagement that can be enjoyed by people of all ages As growth continues, organizations such as SFIA, the Association of Pickleball Professionals and USA Pickleball have become market influencers. They monitor, compile, and track the sport’s progress, providing metrics that reflect growth, usage, and trends. The statistics are impressive. At the end of 2024, the SFIA’s Participation Report 1 indicated: • Nearly 20 million active players • 45.8% year-over-year growth from 2023 regardless of skill level or physical ability. Pickleball Marketplace At-A-Glance

• 311% total growth from 2021-2024 • Adults 65+ represent 15.4% of total players • Paddle market value = $1.5 billion • 11.3% compound annual growth rate projected through 2028 As more people gravitate to the sport, the demand for courts continue to exceed supply. Homeowner associations (HOAs) are looking for solutions to close that gap. How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pickleball Court? The Association Management Group “estimates the cost of building a standard 30’ x 60’ court ranges from $35,000 to $80,000.” 2 HOAs planning new construction should assess the following factors when estimating costs: • Surface materials: Post-tension concrete or rebar-rein forced concrete, plus acrylic surfacing for playability • Fencing: 4-foot-high chain link fencing or 10-foot vinyl-coat ed fencing

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JULY 2025