Pickleball is exploding in popularity. Each day brings a new article about which celebrity is playing or what new venue is being built. It is an exciting time for the sport, especially to those “O.G.’s” who have been playing it well before it was so trendy and cool to do so.

But it begs the question: ‘Why is Pickleball becoming so popular?’

I have some thoughts on that. First of which is stating the obvious. The pandemic forced us all to change our routines and find new ways to get some exercise. Pickleball ticked all the boxes. It was played outside and at a safe distance. The barrier to entry was incredibly low, you didn’t need lessons or expensive equipment to get started, and it was incredibly social and fun to play.

But I’m not telling you anything you didn’t know already. But the other reason why I think Pickleball has proven to be so popular is that it was first played and embraced by seniors.

I know, this might sound counterintuitive, but hear me out. While many younger people dismissed the game as a mere hobby for older folks, seniors were evolving the sport. They were creating strategies and skills that made it much more interesting to play. If college tennis players had embraced the game before the seniors, I am not convinced we would see the dink game play as prominent a role, nor am I convinced it would be nearly as popular.

One of my favorite parts of Pickleball, and one of the draws that makes it so popular, is seeing people of all ages, shapes, and sizes able to compete at the highest levels. A great Pickleball player does not need great athleticism, sure it helps, but less athletic players can use strategy to mitigate their opponent’s athleticism. Watching older players compete with much younger and fitter athletes gives us all a bit of hope. The playing field is leveled on a Pickleball court, where experience is valued just as much, if not more so than size, speed, or strength. Where other sports rely on sheer athleticism, Pickleball is one part talent, two parts strategy. So understanding the game, having patience, and formulating a game plan is more important than just athleticism alone.

Being able to strategically compete with a more athletic opponent and come away with a victory is one of the most satisfying feelings I have ever experienced. I believe it is what keeps us coming back for more, because as we see, the more experienced you are, the better your chances, no matter how athletic your opponent.

The popularity of Pickleball is because there is no other sport like it. Where strategy mitigates athleticism and people of any age can compete with one another.

Some people might have dismissed Pickleball because they perceived it as ‘an old person’s sport.’ But I believe that seeing people of all ages be able to compete is precisely why we love it. It’s no wonder Pickleball continues to grow, it gives us all a little hope. And no matter how old or athletic you may be, we can all use a little hope.

Jason Aspes is co-founder of The Kitchen, the largest community of Pickleball players and enthusiasts in the world. You can find them on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter or Youtube by searching "The Kitchen - Pickleball".