Penn State Campus Recreation revealed the creation of 12 new outdoor pickleball courts next to the McCoy Natatorium earlier this month.

The courts, which opened on September 9, were funded by the Student Fee Board due to the growing demand for pickleball court availability among students.

Pickleball has quickly become the fastest-growing sport in the country, growing 51.8% from 2022 to 2023. It quickly gained traction within the Penn State community and Campus Recreation converted former tennis courts to a space dedicated to the popular sport.

Though you don’t need to join to play, there’s also a pickleball club on campus that practices from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and from 1-3 p.m. on Sundays.

The new courts are open to all Penn State students from dawn to dusk. Folks can also check out paddles and balls from the IM Building or Tennis Center. 

Pickleball is believed to improve balance, hand-eye coordination, flexibility, and heart health, boost mood and mental health, and prevent osteoporosis.

The low-impact but high-intensity game is played on a 44-foot by 20-foot court with paddles and plastic pickleball — more similar to a wiffle ball than a tennis ball.

On rainy days, pickleball fanatics can book indoor courts at the IM Building should the outdoor courts be too slippery. Reservations aren’t required outside, but 75-minute sessions are available for the indoor courts.