Exploring the Growing Pickleball Scene in Arizona

Pickleball has been gaining immense popularity across the United States. Arizona, with its sunny weather and active lifestyle, is no exception. According to a study in late 2023, there are 4,700+ pickleball players in the Arizona Pickleball Player's League. Let's look closer at the vibrant pickleball scene in Arizona, based on data from TeachMe.To, a coaching company that helps players connect with expert pickleball coaches.

Scottsdale

Scottsdale leads the way in the Arizona pickleball community. With a stagering 41.76% of the state’s coaches and 32.31% of lessons booked, it’s clear that Scottsdale is the epicenter of pickleball activity. The city puts a huge emphasis on sports and outdoor activities, making it a prime location for both casual and competitive play. A new location in Scottsdale is planned for Center Court Pickleball. This location will be 35,000 square feet and is planned to have at least 16 courts for players.

Phoenix

Phoenix is one of the leaders in the pickleball scene with 27.47% of the coaches and nearly 22.45% of the lessons booked. Benjamin Seeger is one of the top pickleball coaches in Phoenix. Seeger says, I believe in fostering a welcoming and fun environment. Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your game, let's embark on this coaching journey together, any day of the week. Get ready to learn, laugh, and have a blast on the pickleball court!"

The Phoenix area has also seen a surge in the number of pickleball courts in the city. Currently, there are 30 locations with 137 courts. Ryan Trefry, pickleball director at Legacy Sports USA complex says, “Pickleball has been growing exponentially in the Phoenix area. More courts are being built every year, and the number of players playing has been exploding.”

Chandler

Chandler is another hot spot for pickleball, with 13.19% of the coaches and 18.03% of the lessons booked. In fact, there are new pickleball courts planned for Chandler's Tumbleweed Park. The new facility will have 18 courts, making it more accessible to residents and will definitely help the sport grow in the community.

Peoria

While Peoria has 1.10% of coaches, it sees a significant number of lessons booked at 6.80%. This indicates a high demand for pickleball, potentially surpassing the current supply of coaches. If you'd like to play indoors, a new state-of-the-art facility called the Pickle Guild was just built in Peoria.

Mesa

Mesa offers a balanced pickleball scene with 4.40% of the coaches and 5.10% of the lessons booked. The city's extensive park system provides ample opportunities for residents to engage in the sport. There are 30 different locations where you can play pickleball in Mesa, showing how much the community truly loves the sport.

Goodyear

Goodyear, with 2.20% of the coaches and 4.42% of the lessons booked, is steadily growing as a pickleball hub. The city's investment in recreational facilities is paying off with increasing participation rates. Goodyear offers 8 different locations to play with a total of 63 courts.

Surprise

Surprise matches Goodyear in terms of coaches at 2.20% but has slightly fewer lessons booked with 3.40% of Arizona’s total bookings. The city's supportive community and sports culture are driving interest in pickleball with 8 locations and 91 pickleball courts.

Gilbert

Gilbert stands out with 3.30% of the coaches, though the lessons booked are at 2.72%. This could suggest an opportunity for more lessons and increased player engagement in the near future. Our TeachMe.To coach Ryan Guercio is a lifelong tennis player turned pickleball coach and he is the highest reviewed coach in Gilbert. One of his most recent reviews from Emily said, "Ryan's experience as a lifelong tennis player gave me a unique perspective on the game. His tips and drills helped me transition my skills to pickleball, and I'm now more confident on the court." As coaches like Ryan are teaching more players how to play pickleball in Gilbert, the sport is sure to grow.

The future of pickleball in Arizona

Arizona’s pickleball landscape is dynamic and diverse, with each city contributing to the sport’s growth in unique ways. Arizona is currently ranked with 17th most pickleball courts in the United States with 363 courts. As more locations open and new players try out pickleball, don't be surprised when Arizona's ranking continues to rise. Arizona has some incredible weather that supports year-round play for pickleball. The future is very bright indeed for pickleball in Arizona.

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