Edmonds Resident Patrick Johnson Leads the Way in Popularizing Pickleball in the Puget Sound Region
Are you looking for a fun and engaging way to stay active and connect with your community? Look no further than pickleball! This quirky racket sport has been gaining popularity in the Puget Sound region, thanks in part to dedicated enthusiasts like Edmonds resident Patrick Johnson.
Johnson, a longtime pickleball player and advocate, has seen the sport grow exponentially in recent years, especially post-COVID. With a passion for the game that dates back to his childhood, Johnson now spends his days promoting pickleball, organizing events, and sharing his love for the sport with others.
One of Johnson’s proudest accomplishments is the Seattle Metro Classic, a tournament he co-founded with his wife Marianne and a few friends. What started with just 50 entries has now grown to over 900 competitors, making it the largest pickleball tournament on the West Coast. The tournament, scheduled for July 30 through Aug. 4 in Shoreline, is a labor of love for Johnson and his team of volunteers.
But Johnson’s dedication to pickleball goes beyond just organizing tournaments. He dreams of seeing the sport included in school curriculums, becoming a competitive sport at all levels, and even making its way to the Olympics. With his backyard court and early morning sessions at Harbor Square Athletic Club, Johnson is committed to playing pickleball for life and advocating for its continued growth.
If you’re interested in joining the pickleball craze, why not check out the Seattle Metro Classic tournament? With games running from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shoreview Park in Shoreline, it’s the perfect opportunity to see some top-notch pickleball action and maybe even pick up a paddle yourself.
So whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, pickleball is a sport that’s sure to bring you joy and connection. And with passionate advocates like Patrick Johnson leading the way, the future of pickleball in the Puget Sound region looks bright.