Pickleball is on the rise in Delaware

Across the United States, pickleball has seen a meteoric rise. In 2023, there were approximately 36.5 million players, a significant increase from previous years​ (Pickleball Sporting). So, it is no surprise that this sport is also on the rise in Delaware. Two areas, in particular, are emerging as hot spots for pickleball: Wilmington and Sussex County. Based on recent data from TeachMe.To, these regions are the leaders of the pickleball community in Delaware.

Wilmington: The Heart of Delaware’s Pickleball Scene

Wilmington is at the forefront of the pickleball boom in Delaware, boasting 75% of the state’s pickleball coaches and accounting for 58.82% of the coaching lessons booked. This makes Wilmington the hub for both beginners looking to learn the sport and experienced players seeking to refine their skills.

A key factor contributing to Wilmington’s pickleball success is the availability of quality facilities, particularly at Wilmington State Parks. The parks offer well-maintained courts that are accessible to the public, providing an ideal environment for both recreational play and professional coaching. The scenic surroundings of the parks add to the appeal, making it a popular destination for pickleball enthusiasts.

Sussex County: A Rising Star in Delaware’s Pickleball Community

While Wilmington may currently be ranked first, Sussex County is not far behind. The area accounts for 25% of Delaware’s pickleball coaches and 41.18% of the coaching lessons booked, indicating a strong and growing interest in the sport.

One of the most notable venues in Sussex County is Sandhill Fields, a 56-acre recreational area featuring eight Bermuda Grass playing fields, six pickleball courts, and 3.5 miles of walking and running trails. The site also includes picnic pavilions, a playground, a food truck circle, and restrooms for visitors' convenience. 

The popularity of Sandhill Fields is a testament to the growing pickleball culture in Sussex County. The facility regularly hosts clinics, tournaments, and social gatherings, creating a strong sense of community among players.

The Future of Pickleball in Delaware

As pickleball continues to grow in Delaware, both Wilmington and Sussex County are poised to play pivotal roles in the sport’s development. Wilmington, with its concentration of coaches and active community, will likely remain the epicenter of pickleball in the state. With more than 13,969 courts across the country and new ones being built every month, the infrastructure is expanding to meet demand​ (Pickleball Sporting).

For example, a pickleball facility, Midway Motion & Fitness, was recently awarded $2 million to build a pickleball complex from the state’s Sports Tourism Capital Investment Fund. This new facility in Rehoboth will have 12 indoor and 4 outdoor courts meeting American Pickleball Association sanctioning requirements.

"The pickleball project is one that we really thought could bring some unique events to Delaware," said Jessica Welch, Delaware Tourism Office director. The pickleball facility will be brand new in the state we don't have anything else like it. Our other surrounding states really don't have anything like that either. So that will really put us into a good position to try to bring regional or national tournaments for pickleball
to Delaware.

Delaware’s pickleball future looks bright, and with continued support for facilities, coaching, and events, the state is set to become a major player in the national pickleball scene.