Pickleball at church?

How Churches Are Using Pickleball to Build Community and Boost Engagement

Pickleball, the fast-growing paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, isn’t just a recreational trend—it’s becoming a powerful tool for churches to attract new members and strengthen their communities. With its low barrier to entry, family-friendly appeal, and ability to foster connection, pickleball is helping congregations repurpose existing spaces and create vibrant, engaging events. Here’s how churches are tapping into the pickleball craze to keep their communities active, connected, and growing.

Turning Gyms into Pickleball Hubs

Many churches already have the perfect infrastructure to jump on the pickleball bandwagon: underutilized gymnasiums or multipurpose rooms. These spaces, often built decades ago for basketball or youth activities, are being transformed into pickleball courts with minimal investment. A standard basketball court can accommodate multiple pickleball courts, requiring only portable nets, some tape for lines, and paddles, which are relatively inexpensive.

By converting these spaces, churches are creating a welcoming environment for both members and newcomers. For example, a church in suburban Ohio recently marked out three pickleball courts in its gym, offering free open-play sessions on weeknights. The result? A mix of young families, retirees, and even non-members showed up, drawn by the chance to try a fun, accessible sport. These sessions provide a low-pressure way for visitors to experience the church’s hospitality, often leading to deeper engagement with worship services or other programs.

Hosting Family-Friendly Pickleball Mixers

Pickleball’s appeal spans generations, making it an ideal activity for churches aiming to bring their congregations together. Unlike more physically demanding sports, pickleball is easy to learn and adaptable for players of all ages and skill levels. Churches are capitalizing on this by hosting pickleball mixers—lively, inclusive events that combine gameplay with fellowship.

These mixers often feature round-robin tournaments, beginner clinics, or themed game nights, complete with snacks and music to create a festive atmosphere. A church in Texas, for instance, launched a monthly “Pickleball and Pizza” night, where families play doubles together, fostering intergenerational bonding. These events not only strengthen relationships among existing members but also attract curious neighbors who might not otherwise step foot in a church. By offering a fun, non-religious entry point, churches create opportunities to share their mission with new faces.

Promoting Health and Community

Pickleball isn’t just fun—it’s good for you. The sport offers a low-impact workout that improves cardiovascular health, coordination, and mental well-being. For churches, promoting pickleball aligns with their mission to care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Regular play encourages members to stay active, which is especially valuable for older congregants looking for safe, social exercise options.

Beyond physical health, pickleball fosters a sense of belonging. The sport’s doubles format naturally encourages teamwork and conversation, helping players form connections on and off the court. Churches are leveraging this to combat loneliness and build stronger community ties. A recent article from Religion News Service highlights how churches across the U.S. are using pickleball to create “a sense of joy and togetherness,” noting that some congregations have seen attendance at social events double since introducing the sport read more here.

Outreach and Evangelism Through Play

Pickleball also serves as a unique outreach tool. Churches are inviting the broader community to their courts, often advertising open play sessions on social media or local event boards. These events provide a non-intimidating way for people to experience a church’s culture without the pressure of attending a service. For example, a California church partnered with a local pickleball club to host a charity tournament, raising funds for a community food bank while introducing dozens of new people to their congregation.

By emphasizing fun and inclusivity, churches are breaking down barriers that might deter potential members. Pickleball’s lighthearted nature makes it easier for newcomers to feel welcome, whether they’re seasoned players or picking up a paddle for the first time.

Tips for Churches Looking to Start a Pickleball Program

If your church is considering jumping on the pickleball bandwagon, here are a few steps to get started:

Assess Your Space: Check if your gym or multipurpose room can accommodate a court (a standard pickleball court is 20x44 feet).

Invest in Equipment: Purchase portable nets, paddles, and balls—basic setups can cost as little as $200.

Promote Inclusivity: Offer beginner clinics and mixed-age events to ensure everyone feels welcome.

Spread the Word: Use social media, community boards, and word-of-mouth to invite both members and non-members.

Combine with Fellowship: Pair pickleball with food, music, or short devotionals to enhance the community experience.

The Future of Pickleball in Churches

As pickleball continues to surge in popularity—boasting over 13 million players in the U.S. alone—churches have a unique opportunity to harness its potential. By transforming gyms into courts and hosting lively mixers, congregations are not only keeping their communities active and engaged but also opening their doors to new members. Pickleball is proving to be more than just a game; it’s a way for churches to build bridges, foster joy, and grow their ministries, one swing at a time.

Have you seen pickleball take off at a church near you? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below!