College Pickleball is Growing Fast

From informal campus recreation to varsity programs with scholarships, pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing activities at American universities.

Current State of College Pickleball

College pickleball has evolved rapidly from casual recreation to organized competition. While still in its early stages compared to traditional college sports, the growth has been remarkable.

Two Universities Offer Athletic Scholarships

Utah Tech University and Drury University currently offer the only confirmed athletic scholarships specifically for pickleball, with Utah Tech being the first to launch their program in 2021.

Hundreds of Recreation Programs

Most college pickleball exists at the recreational level, with campus recreation centers offering courts, equipment, and intramural leagues. This recreational foundation is where most competitive programs begin.

Growing Club Sport Movement

Student-led club teams are forming at universities nationwide, competing in regional tournaments and working toward official recognition. These programs often serve as stepping stones to varsity status.

The Reality of Pickleball Scholarships

Current Scholarship Landscape

While pickleball scholarships exist, they're extremely limited. Here's what's actually available:

Utah Tech University

Type: Athletic Scholarships

Amount: Varies, up to significant partial scholarships

Contact: Coach Deb Harrison

Website: utahtech.edu/athletics

Drury University

Type: Athletic Scholarships

Amount: Partial scholarships available

Location: Springfield, Missouri

Website: drury.edu/athletics

Other Financial Opportunities

  • USA Pickleball Foundation Grants: Need-based grants for college students
  • Academic Merit Aid: Some programs offer academic scholarships to pickleball players
  • Equipment/Travel Support: Many club programs provide equipment and cover tournament expenses

Notable College Programs

Varsity Level Programs

  • Utah Tech University (Utah): First varsity program with scholarships
  • Drury University (Missouri): Established varsity program in the Midwest
  • University of North Carolina: Growing varsity program with recent success

Strong Club Programs

  • Arizona State University: Large, active club with tournament participation
  • University of Florida: Competitive club team in the Southeast
  • University of Texas: Well-organized club program
  • Georgia Tech: Active in regional competitions

Recreation Leaders

  • Stanford University: Popular recreational program
  • University of Michigan: Strong intramural participation
  • Penn State University: Growing recreational interest

College Pickleball Competitions

National Championships

The annual National Collegiate Pickleball Championships, typically held in spring, brings together college programs from across the country. The event features both team and individual competitions across multiple skill levels.

Regional Tournaments

Regional competitions are organized throughout the academic year, with strong participation in the Southwest (Arizona, Utah), Southeast (Florida, Georgia), and growing activity in other regions.

Recent Champions

  • 2024 Varsity Division: Utah Tech University
  • 2024 Club Division: University of North Carolina

How to Get Involved

For High School Students

If you're interested in playing pickleball in college:

  • Research schools with existing programs (see our Programs page)
  • Develop your skills through tournaments and coaching
  • Contact coaches at Utah Tech and Drury if seeking scholarships
  • Consider schools with strong club programs you could join
  • Look into academic merit scholarships at schools with pickleball programs

For Current College Students

If your school doesn't have a program:

  • Check with campus recreation about pickleball availability
  • Start an informal group to gauge interest
  • Work with student organizations to establish a club
  • Connect with other college programs for advice

Key Resources

USA Pickleball

The national governing body for pickleball

usapickleball.org

DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating)

Official rating system used by many college programs

dupr.gg

College Recreation Programs

Most college pickleball starts through campus recreation

Contact your school's recreation center

Tournament Information

National and regional tournament schedules

Check USA Pickleball's tournament calendar