Pickleball in Tucson: The Fastest Growing Sport You didn't know youNeeded
If you guessed the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. was extreme ironing or competitive snail racing, I regret to inform you that you’re incorrect. The actual answer is pickleball—a sport so addictive that even tennis players are switching teams. Why? Because it’s easier on the joints, has a social aspect that rivals a neighborhood barbecue, and, let’s be honest, the name alone is just plain fun to say. If you are living in Tucson, there are many options for your pickleball needs.
Pickleball: What the heck is it?
Pickleball is like if tennis, ping-pong, and badminton had a baby—except that baby is way more fun and doesn’t require as much running. Played on a smaller court with a wiffle-like ball and oversized ping-pong paddles, the game is all about quick reflexes, strategic dinks (yes, that’s a real term), and avoiding the dreaded “kitchen”—not for cooking, but because you’re not allowed to volley there. Games go to 11, and you have to win by two, which means you might be stuck in a never-ending battle of “just one more point!” It’s fast, it’s addictive, and it’s the only sport where retirees regularly school teenagers.
Why Pickleball? (Besides the Fact That It’s Awesome)
Pickleball is the great equalizer of sports. Whether you’re eight years old or eighty, you can step onto the court and have a blast. Unlike tennis, where you might find yourself gasping for air after sprinting for a cross-court shot, pickleball’s smaller court means less running and more playing. Plus, the paddles are lighter, and the underhand serve won’t make you question your shoulder’s life choices.
Pickleball Hotspots in Tucson: Where the Magic Happens
Tucson has embraced pickleball like a long-lost cousin at a family reunion. Tennis courts have been repurposed, dedicated pickleball facilities have sprung up, and now, pickleheads (yes, that’s the official term for Pickleball fanatics) have their own playgrounds. Here are some of my fave spots to play in Tucson.
Udall Park: With 12 courts and a steady flow of players, you’ll never be sitting on the sidelines for long. Sunblock is a must unless you want to leave looking like a well-done steak. Free play
Kino Sports Complex: Boasting 20 outdoor courts, this is the place to be if you like fresh air and the possibility of sunburning in record time. No money required.
Tucson Racquet Club: Open 24/7 with 22 courts. Yes, you read that right—24/7. So if you ever feel like playing pickleball at 3 AM, you know where to go. Membership is required.
Ace Pickleball: Featuring 13 indoor courts, plus practice courts and a stretching area for those of us who need to remind our muscles what movement feels like before playing. Membership is required.
Basically, if you can’t find a pickleball court in Tucson, you’re not looking hard enough. For a more comprehensive list of locations, visit Tucsonpickleball.org/places.
The Bare Minimum Gear You Need to Become a Pickleball ProdigyHeading Text Here
One of the best things about pickleball is that it doesn’t require you to sell a kidney to afford equipment.
- A paddle: Light or heavy, depending on how much wrist strength you want to fake.
- Pickleballs: These last way longer than tennis balls, so no need to carry an emergency stash.
- Shoes: Because slipping and falling mid-game is only funny when it happens to someone else.
- Sun protection: Unless you enjoy looking like a lobster, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are highly recommended.
- You can always buy gear on Amazon, but if you want to support local businesses, here are a couple of local shops to buy equipment.
- PickleballRx at 3148 E Fort Lowell Rd, visit PickleballRx.
- There is also a pro shop at the Tucson Racquet Club that has a variety of pickleball gear. Visit the Tucson Racquet and Fitness Club Pro Shop.
Pickleball Etiquette: How to Avoid Being “That Player”
Pickleball is fun, but it does come with a few unspoken rules if you don’t want to get side-eyed by your fellow players:
Keep score correctly: If you call out numbers that sound more like a nuclear launch code, expect some eye rolls.
Don’t take it too seriously: If you’re yelling like it’s Game 7 of the NBA Finals, maybe take a deep breath.
Be a good sport: Beating an 80-year-old couple? No need to celebrate like you just won the lottery. Losing to that same couple? Try not to cry (we’ve all been there).
Conclusion: Time to Join the Pickleball Revolution
Pickleball isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, Tucson’s courts are waiting for you. So grab a paddle, embrace the chaos, and remember: it’s all fun and games until Grandma smokes you with a perfectly placed drop shot. For other fun outdoor activities, please check out this article on cycling in Tucson.
