Pickleball has captured the interest of players of all ages, including kids. According to the 2022 Sports & Fitness Industry Association Report on Pickleball, individuals aged 6 to 17 constituted 21.2% of the nearly 5 million pickleball enthusiasts in 2021. Furthermore, the under-24 age group experienced the most rapid expansion, with a growth rate of 21% from 2020 to 2021, the highest among all age categories.
For those considering investing in the next generation of pickleball players, here are essential tips for running a successful pickleball program for kids:
1. Start with the Basics
Before diving into games, ensure kids understand the fundamental rules of pickleball. Use simple language and demonstrations to explain the court layout, scoring, basic strokes and terminology. Keep explanations short and engaging to hold their attention.
2. Focus on Fun and Encouragement
While competition is a part of pickleball, for kids, the emphasis should be on fun and personal growth. Celebrate effort and improvement rather than just wins and losses. Use positive reinforcement to boost their confidence and enjoyment of the game.
3. Create a Safe and Inclusive Environment
Ensure the playing area is safe, with no trip hazards and plenty of space around courts. Promote inclusivity by encouraging kids of all skill levels to participate, and adapt the game as needed to accommodate different abilities.
4. Implement Team Activities
Pickleball can be a great way to teach teamwork. Organize doubles games or team-based competitions where kids can learn to cooperate and strategize with partners. This can enhance their social interaction and collective problem-solving skills.
5. Offer Structured and Free Play
While structured drills and lessons are important, allow time for free play. This gives children the opportunity to experiment with the skills they’ve learned and play in a less formal setting, which can be highly beneficial for creativity and relaxation.
6. Engage Parents and Families
Invite parents to participate in family play days or end-of-season tournaments. This not only builds a community around your program but also encourages families to continue playing pickleball together outside of organized activities.
7. Hire Appropriate Staff
Working with children demands a unique set of skills. It’s essential staff involved in the pickleball program for kids are not only qualified but also have a genuine enjoyment for working with children. Additionally, conducting background checks on any personnel who directly interact with kids is a best practice and may even be mandated by your business insurance provider. To ensure risk is properly mitigated, consult with your risk management provider for guidance on the necessary precautions.
8. Consider the Customer Experience
Carefully consider every facet of the customer experience in your program, focusing on both the children participating and their parents. Was the enrollment process straightforward and seamless? Evaluate your communication strategy regarding practices, schedule changes and other updates. If kids or parents perceive the program as disorganized, it could result in decreased participation in the future.
9. Regularly Assess and Adapt the Program
Continuously gather feedback from kids and parents to understand what works and what can be improved. Be flexible in adjusting your program to meet the evolving needs and interests of your participants.
10. Promote Health and Hydration
Lastly, educate kids about the importance of staying hydrated and eating healthy snacks, especially on hot days or during intense sessions. Keeping children well-nourished and hydrated is crucial for their performance and overall well-being.
By following these tips, you can create a profitable, vibrant and enriching pickleball program for kids that nurtures young players’ love for the game while promoting physical health and social development.
With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
