A surge in pickleball’s popularity has unfolded within the heart of Scituate High School. Considered the “little sibling of tennis,” pickleball is a smashing hit among students and staff.

What initially started as a requirement for the physical education curriculum quickly expanded into a widespread craze. During the COVID-19 pandemic, pickleball emerged when many people spent extended periods at home with limited activity. It permitted students and staff to have fun and enjoy the outdoors with each other, which was a rarity during those times. Pickleball’s attributes lie within its accessibility and simplicity, whether it’s the minimal equipment required, the smaller net, or the simple rules.

After speaking with students and staff members about their connections to pickleball, it’s clear that this sport deserves a place in the SHS club sports program. Junior Amy Thornton, an established student-athlete, is not only a tennis talent–she also loves playing pickleball. Thornton said, “Having tennis skills makes pickleball even more enjoyable.” Like many other students, Thornton believes that including pickleball as an extra-curricular activity would be a great move: “It would be a valuable addition.”

It’s not just students advocating for the sport–staff members expressed their support, too. SHS special education teacher Michael Timcoe opposes the controversial statement that pickleball is exclusively for the elderly, stating, “It depends on where you go.” He explained that while South Boston pickleball courts attract many 20 to 40-year-olds, the South Shore sees more players aged 50 to 70. Enjoying pickleball for nearly four years, Timcoe has witnessed a significant increase in participation, with many people lining up to play.

Despite the support for giving pickleball more visibility at SHS, starting a club may be challenging. Both Timcoe and varsity golf coach and physical education teacher William Seward acknowledged the difficulties. Seward has been teaching pickleball in his classes for 15 years, but the sport itself has been around for at least 30 years. Seward said that although pickleball was considered a potential club sport by the MIAA, it never progressed beyond conversations due to facility usage issues. Timcoe suggested a solution: “Create a court specifically for Scituate High School students or alumni,” which would make it easier for the school to regulate court usage for recreational purposes.

Pickleball’s expansion isn’t limited to Scituate; it’s growing in many Massachusetts communities. Seward noted, “Every town and community in Massachusetts is looking to add or build pickleball courts.” The passion for this game is generating new hope for students, and everyone should keep an eye out for the next “drop shot” in Scituate High School—pickleball.