Paddles and balls combine fitness and community

In the city of Fresno, the sound of pickleball paddles is becoming more common.

Last year, the city opened new dedicated courts at Rotary Park.

“The community came together and built these wonderful facilities, 8 beautiful courts,” said Matt White, a community pickleball player. “It’s opened up the space to allow more people to enjoy the sport.”

White’s entire family frequently plays pickleball. His own son is even a member of the Bulldog Pickleball Club at Fresno State.

Nicholas Wise, the club’s president and founder, says Bulldog Pickleball is teaching students about what has become the fastest-growing sport in America.

“We play it on a smaller court than tennis which makes it really accessible to players of all ages and all abilities, and that’s really the beauty of the sport is that anybody can play with anyone and that’s why it’s been growing so fast,” Wise said.

The club hosts practices, tournaments and open play events for both recreation and competition.

“We’ve done a lot more student engagement initiatives, like our “Pickleball After Dark” sessions that happen on Wednesday evenings,” Wise said. “We also have a competitive organization, Bulldog Pickleball, which travels the nation.”

Bulldog Pickleball’s last “Pickleball After Dark” event of the semester is happening tonight from 6-9 p.m. at the Spalding G. Wathen Tennis Center.

But there are many other free opportunities to learn and play pickleball outside of Fresno State within the community.

“They teach lessons at Vinland still, which is right next to Fresno State behind Dog House Grill,” White said. “Just show up with a paddle – you don’t even need to bring your paddle, a lot of us have multiple paddles.”

From college kids to retired folks, pickleball brings generations together and creates a fun, approachable and active community.