PLACER COUNTY, Calif. — Pickleball is the fastest growing sport for the third consecutive year, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. 36.5 million people played last year, and Placer County is hiring 1,500 competitors for a nationally televised tournament.
Tom Webb, with the Association of Pickleball Players, said they love being in Northern California for a third year in a row.
“We’ve been to this court here in Sacramento before. This is a real favorite on our tour stop. I think the fact that we’ve got 1,500 players here, nearly 90% more players then we had competing last year at the same tournament, speaks to how big this sport is becoming,” said Webb.
The sport combines tennis, badminton and ping pong. It's expected to bring in $3 million to Placer County. According to the association, 40% of players are from out of town, so they need somewhere to stay.
Kim Summers, the CEO of the Placer County Tourism Board, said the economic impact of the tournament spans across hotels and restaurants.
”We have 24 hotels in Roseville, Rocklin and Lincoln and all have a little bit of business from the tournament and, usually midweek, especially in March, is a little slower. So to have this, they are very happy,” said Summers.
Pickleball started with the older generations and became popular during the pandemic. However, it is now widely played across all demographics around the world including players of all ages. The tourism board looks to capitalize on the growth of the industry for the county.
“We are very fortunate to have Johnson Ranch in our own back yard. It’s the largest outdoor pickle ball center in Northern California, but we are working with Rocklin to add more pickleball courts so you’ll be able to see these kinds of tournaments ongoing for years to come,” said Summers.
The tournament runs until Sunday, that’s the day of the championships rounds. Placer County is already looking to host it again next year.
Tickets are $15 if you’d like to attend.
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