Karen Evans, a 51-year-old from Canterbury, has made a life-changing switch from badminton to pickleball, a rising sport in the UK. Introduced to pickleball by her wife, Lisa, who founded the Canterbury Pickleball Club, Evans quickly found herself captivated by the sport’s unique appeal and inclusive community. The couple first encountered pickleball while playing badminton, noticing players on a nearby court and feeling instantly curious. They gave it a try, loved the experience, and soon put down their badminton rackets for good in favor of pickleball paddles.
Pickleball, a paddle sport originating in the U.S. in 1965 and humorously named after the founder’s dog, combines elements of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong. Played with a perforated plastic ball, the game is accessible to all ages and skill levels and can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. For Evans, the sport’s inviting atmosphere, free of the “snobbery” she sometimes encountered in tennis, has been one of the biggest draws. “It’s such a friendly sport. There’s no hierarchy, and you meet people from all walks of life and different ages,” she explained.
Recently, Evans took her love of pickleball to new heights by competing in the 2024 Skechers English Nationals, held at Bolton Arena. This year’s event was a record-breaking success, with 1,111 participants—a testament to the sport’s rapid growth across England. “The Nationals have been tiring but great,” Evans said, reflecting on her experience at the prestigious event. “We’ve traveled far and even visited other countries for this sport. It’s so accessible, and events like this help spread the word among friends.”
Evans has noticed that pickleball, with its welcoming culture and straightforward rules, appeals to a wide range of players. Unlike traditional tennis, which she feels can carry an air of exclusivity, pickleball’s popularity continues to expand among players of all ages. “We’re seeing more young people joining, and the game’s pace is picking up,” she noted. “I hope it grows to be as popular, if not more so, than tennis.”
With the 2024 Skechers English Nationals marking a significant milestone, the sport is clearly on an upward trajectory in the UK. Pickleball England, the national organization, is dedicated to fostering the game’s growth and inclusivity, making events like these a fantastic opportunity to bring communities together. Evans and many others believe that with more dedicated venues and increased awareness, pickleball’s popularity will only continue to soar.