Pickleball Gains Popularity as Varsity Sport in Maryland County Schools

The Rise of Pickleball: From Recreational Game to Varsity Sport

Love it or loathe it, the sound of pickleball paddles is becoming more and more common across the country. And now, for the first time in the U.S., a school system in Maryland is taking pickleball to the next level by offering it as a varsity sport this fall.

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) in Maryland is leading the charge with their “Pickleball for all” initiative. Jeff Sullivan, the director of systemwide athletics for MCPS, made the exciting announcement at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, MD. He emphasized that pickleball is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, promoting lifelong health and well-being.

The popularity of pickleball is on the rise, with nearly 50 million American adults playing the sport last year, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals. One of those players is Vinnie LaCosta, an 18-year-old senior at Albert Einstein High School. Despite wrestling being his favorite sport, Vinnie found joy in playing pickleball with his brothers. Vinnie, who has Down syndrome, benefits from the physical activity and fun that pickleball provides.

What sets pickleball apart is its inclusivity. Sullivan recognized this and expanded the varsity pickleball program to all 25 high schools in Montgomery County. The sport aligns perfectly with the county’s corollary sports program, which offers opportunities for students with and without disabilities to participate in sports together.

To kick off the launch of varsity pickleball, students had the opportunity to play against a professional player from the D.C. Pickleball Team, Vivian Glozman. Glozman, a former collegiate tennis player, was impressed by the enthusiasm and camaraderie among the students. She highlighted the support and closeness within the teams, emphasizing the community aspect of the sport.

For 15-year-old Tate Fasteau, being part of the pickleball team at Montgomery Blair High School was a rewarding experience. He appreciated the sense of community and friendship within the team, which provided a break from the competitive nature of other sports.

As pickleball continues to gain momentum in Montgomery County, the future looks bright for students on the court. Whether they aspire to be pickleball pros or simply enjoy a casual game with family, the sport offers something for everyone.

With its inclusive nature and community spirit, pickleball is more than just a game – it’s a platform for connection, fun, and lifelong fitness. As the sport expands to more schools and communities, the sound of pickleball paddles will continue to echo across the country, bringing people together in the spirit of play and competition.