Pickleball England has released startling figures that demonstrate the continuing growth of the game at grassroots level in 2023.
Since Pickleball England (PbE) was founded as the de facto national governing body of the game in late 2018, it has recorded data on venues and registered members, as well as evidence-based estimates on the number of active players across the country.
Its statistics for last year show a 58% increase in pickleball venues (up to 449 from 284 in 2022) and 6008 registered members (a 60% year-on-year increase).
The figures indicate there are an estimated 15,000 players in England (up from 8,000 in 2022) – and the organisation has set a target of reaching 25,000 by 2025.
In 2021, PbE introduced a Pickleball Leaders’ Certification. Over 500 people have undertaken this training since then, including 276 in 2023 alone.
Once qualified, these leaders become vital advocates for pickleball – their leadership skills and local influence help multiply the love of the sport.
There are already 11 PLC courses scheduled for the first quarter of this year across all regions. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we doubled last year’s numbers,” PbE Chair Karen Mitchell told Pickleball52.
PbE also run International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association (IPTPA) coaching courses. Demand is high and four courses are scheduled before the spring. PbE is also looking to pilot its own bespoke curriculum after Easter.
Karen told us: “We are delighted that the statistics back up the hard work we know is going on by ourselves and others across the country to develop and grow pickleball.
“At venues large and small across England, an ever-growing number of people are picking up a paddle and learning the benefits of this unique sport – one of the most socially inclusive pursuits around.
“The sport is designed to be played across different age groups and demographics – its rapid growth has as much to do with the enjoyment of playing as it has to do with bringing groups of people together and fostering a sense of belonging.”
Building on its success thus far, PbE’s next priorities are to become recognised by Sport England as the official national governing body; develop the club and venue network to ensure everyone has somewhere to play within 10 miles of their home; develop a marketing plan, establish its own headquarters and generate sustainable funding.
