The Rise of Pickleball

Move over, tennis—pickleball has officially taken center stage as the fastest-growing sport in America, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. What began as a niche backyard game has transformed into a full-blown national craze, played by millions of people across the country.

At CLUB9, we’re all about energy, movement, and community—and we knew pickleball was a perfect fit for that vision. That’s why we partnered with the incredible team at 3rd Shot Drop RI, one of Rhode Island’s top pickleball organizations, to bring this booming sport to life at Kings Crossing Golf Club.

With four newly built courts and weekly programming hosted by 3rd Shot Drop RI, Kings Crossing has become one of the most exciting new pickleball destinations in the state—and the energy is electric.

So how did we get here, and what’s making pickleball the sport of the moment?

Why Pickleball Is So Popular

The popularity of pickleball didn’t happen by accident. It’s fun, accessible, and incredibly addicting. Here’s why so many people are joining the pickleball party:

1. It’s Easy to Learn

Pickleball is simple enough for beginners to get in on the action right away, but offers enough strategy and nuance to keep advanced players hooked. That balance is what makes it such a draw for new and experienced athletes alike.

2. It’s Super Social

This sport is just as much about community as it is about competition. Games are quick, partner rotation is common, and the court culture is friendly and supportive. That makes it a natural fit for Club9’s mission to bring people together through sport and social connection.

3. It’s Great Exercise (Without Overkill)

Pickleball gets you moving, sweating, and laughing—all without the high-impact strain of some other sports. It’s perfect for players of all ages and athletic backgrounds.

4. It’s Accessible

No fancy gear is required. A paddle and some sneakers are all you need. And with facilities like the new courts at Kings Crossing, access has never been better.

What’s the Big Deal About Pickleball?

If you’ve somehow missed the explosion, here’s the scoop: pickleball is a paddle sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s played on a smaller court with a wiffle-style ball and a paddle—not a racket. It’s fast-paced, incredibly social, and a blast to play at any age or skill level.

And it’s not just hype—it’s backed by real numbers.

• According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball has grown by over 223% in the past three years.

• More than 36.5 million people picked up a paddle in 2023 alone.

• It’s now considered the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for three years running.

With low startup costs, easy learning curves, and an inclusive atmosphere, pickleball has captured the hearts of players across all generations—and CLUB9 is proud to be part of the movement.

The Health Benefits of Playing Pickleball

One of the biggest reasons pickleball has caught fire is because it offers serious health benefits—without feeling like a workout. The game’s dynamic but low-impact nature makes it suitable for people of all fitness levels and ages.

Here’s what regular players are gaining beyond just points:

🫀 Cardiovascular Health

The quick lateral movements, short sprints, and continuous action help improve cardiovascular endurance. Even a casual game can give your heart a solid boost.

🧠 Mental Clarity and Stress Relief

Like many sports, pickleball helps reduce stress and anxiety by encouraging movement, socialization, and endorphin release. Plus, the fast-paced, strategic gameplay keeps your mind sharp and focused.

🏃 Functional Fitness

Pickleball improves balance, coordination, reflexes, and agility—all crucial elements of fitness that translate to daily life and longevity.

At CLUB9, we’re not just offering a game—we’re offering a healthier, happier lifestyle through movement and community engagement.

Pickleball Is a Multi-Generational Phenomenon

One of the coolest aspects of pickleball is how it bridges generations. It’s a rare sport where you’ll find teenagers, parents, and grandparents all playing together, often on the same court.

This all-ages appeal makes pickleball perfect for families, friend groups, and community events. The sport’s simplicity makes it approachable for young kids, while its competitiveness keeps seasoned athletes engaged.

Club9’s courts at Kings Crossing reflect this every week—whether it’s a grandparent teaming up with their grandchild or a college student challenging a coworker, pickleball is turning into a social glue for all generations.

What to Expect at Kings Crossing

Thanks to CLUB9 and 3rd Shot Drop RI’s leadership, Kings Crossing is now a vibrant hub for Rhode Island’s pickleball community. Here’s what players can experience:

Leagues for Every Level

From beginners to seasoned pros, 3rd Shot Drop RI organizes inclusive, skill-based leagues that allow everyone to compete, learn, and improve. These leagues are full of energy and run throughout the year.

Clinics and Training Sessions

Not sure where to start? New players can jump into clinics and lessons, taught by experienced instructors who make learning fun and stress-free.

Themed Events and Open Play

3rd Shot Drop RI brings the party with regular open play nights, holiday-themed events, and tournaments that focus on community just as much as competition.

Local Collabs and Merch Drops

As a lifestyle brand, CLUB9 brings its signature creativity to the courts with limited-edition gear, food truck nights, giveaways, and photo-worthy moments designed to keep things fresh.

It’s not just about hitting balls—it’s about connecting through movement, music, and good vibes.

How Pickleball Aligns with CLUB9’s Mission

At its core, CLUB9 is about blending sports, lifestyle, and culture into memorable experiences. We’re not just here for the competition—we’re here for the community.

Pickleball fits that ethos perfectly:

• It’s inclusive

• It’s social

• It’s easy to join but fun to master

• And most importantly, it brings people together in a way that’s real and energizing

Just like our CLUB9 Golf Tour and glow golf nights, pickleball at Kings Crossing adds another layer to how we’re reshaping what recreation looks like for the next generation.

Where Golf, Pickleball, and Culture Intersect

At its core, CLUB9 is more than just a golf brand—it’s a movement that fuses sport with lifestyle. We believe that recreational experiences should be inclusive, community-driven, and genuinely fun, whether you’re swinging a club or a paddle.

Adding pickleball to our lineup isn’t a side hustle—it’s a central part of our evolution. From the CLUB9 Golf Tour to glow golf events to our Friday night concerts at Kings Crossing, our goal is to redefine what a modern sports experience looks like.

We see pickleball as a crucial piece of that puzzle—a way to connect people, grow community, and create moments that stick. With 3rd Shot Drop RI leading the charge on the courts, we’re confident that pickleball at Kings Crossing will keep growing in both size and impact.

What’s Next for Pickleball at Kings Crossing?

This is just the beginning. With pickleball’s popularity continuing to grow, Club9 and 3rd Shot Drop RI have big plans for the upcoming seasons, including:

• 📅 Expanded Leagues — More divisions, more matches, more fun

• 🌙 Nighttime Glow Paddle Events — Music, lights, and matches under the stars

• 🏆 Club9 x 3rd Shot Drop Tournaments — Friendly but fierce competitions with custom prizes

• 🎥 Social Media Spotlights — Highlight reels, interviews, and UGC from our community

• 🍻 Pickleball + Patio Nights — A court-to-clubhouse experience with drinks, live music, and games

With each new event, we’re not just growing the sport—we’re building a community.

Join the Pickleball Movement with CLUB9

The numbers don’t lie: pickleball is no longer just a trend—it’s a full-blown cultural shift. And with CLUB9’s passion for innovative recreation and 3rd Shot Drop RI’s pickleball expertise, we’re proud to be leading the charge in Rhode Island.

At Kings Crossing, our pickleball courts are more than just a place to play—they’re a space to connect, grow, compete, and have a blast doing it.

So whether you’re a seasoned player, a weekend warrior, or just pickleball-curious, now’s the time to grab a paddle and get involved.