Guest Opinion | Ken Kikkawa: A Call for More Pickleball Courts in Pasadena

As the sun rises onto Pasadena’s picturesque streets, residents and visitors alike embark on their daily  pursuits. Some seek solace in the tranquility of our local parks, while others crave the camaraderie of social  interactions. Yet, amidst this vibrant cityscape, there’s a growing desire for an activity that blends  competition with joy, and strategy with mental agility, all while providing a much-needed outlet for exercise  and stress relief.

 Enter pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport, a phenomenon that’s taken the nation  by storm from its humble origins on Bainbridge Island in Washington State to its widespread appeal that  bridges gender and generational gaps. 

Despite its meteoric rise, dedicated pickleball courts in Pasadena remain relatively scarce. While tennis  and basketball courts are plentiful in comparison, pickleball enthusiasts often find themselves vying for  space, hindering access for both seasoned players and newcomers alike. Picture this: twenty or more eager  pickleball players waiting for an open court, while nearby tennis and basketball courts lie largely dormant 

at certain times of the day. It’s a scenario that underscores the urgent need for an improved pickleball  infrastructure in our community. 

The allure of pickleball extends far beyond the confines of the game. It’s a catalyst for physical vitality,  mental acuity, and social connectivity—a trifecta that resonates deeply in our fast-paced urban landscape.  There’s a true sense of community fostered by the game, unlike anything experienced in most other  traditional sports. Pickleball is inclusive, welcoming players of all ages, skill levels, and physical stature. Its  straightforward rules and engaging gameplay make it accessible to beginners, while its strategic depth and  competitive elements entice seasoned athletes. Even people with little or no athletic background can learn  how to play the game and start to have fun in less than an hour. With dedication, practice and some  instruction, these same players can become quite competent in far less than a year’s time. 

Pickleball transcends conventional boundaries, fostering bonds that endure beyond the game itself.  Whether you’re playing with old friends or forging new connections on the court, pickleball celebrates  inclusion, diversity, and the sheer joy of shared experiences—a spirit that epitomizes the vibrant tapestry  of Pasadena’s community. 

As we chart our course forward, it’s imperative that we invest in expanding the pickleball infrastructure within our city. By allocating resources to construct more courts and promote pickleball programs, we can  unlock a wealth of benefits for our residents. This isn’t just about reaffirming Pasadena’s identity as a  progressive, forward-thinking community, it’s about truly enhancing the quality of life for our residents. We  can start by repurposing existing spaces and making minimal adjustments, such as painting lines on tennis  and basketball courts. Since as many as 3-4 pickleball courts can fit onto one tennis or basketball court, this is a simple yet effective way to kickstart the pickleball revolution right here in our backyard. Establish  the rules of which sports can be played at what times, encourage pickleball players to bring portable nets,  and then watch the magic happen. 

The time has come for Pasadena to embrace the pickleball phenomenon wholeheartedly. Let’s seize this  opportunity to cultivate a more vibrant community, celebrate our shared spirit, and pave the way for a future  where pickleball isn’t just a game—it’s a conduit that brings people together in both celebrating and  embracing our diverse population. 

It’s time to rally for the future of pickleball in Pasadena. The ball is in our court. 

Let’s play. 

Ken Kikkawa is a certified pickleball coach and teaching professional. He is the founder of  Love2Dink Pickleball and co-author of The Unexpected Joy of Pickleball: Inspirational Stories and Life Lessons from the Court. Ken and his co-author, Karen Saliba, will hold a book reading and signing event on Sunday, April 28, at 4 p.m. at Vroman’s Bookstore, located at 695 E. Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena.