Pickleball tournament to be hosted by Washington Park Pickleball Club

First played as a children's backyard game on Bainbridge Island in Washington in 1965, pickleball has evolved to be recognized by its highest governing body, the International Federation of Pickleball.

The Washington Park Pickleball Club will be hosting a tournament on May 20 and 21 at Washington Park, and it is expected to attract 185 participants. The tournament debuted last year with 75 participants, and it has grown rapidly due to the sport's popularity in the US, particularly in Florida and Arizona.

The tournament will feature men's and women's doubles on May 20 and mixed doubles on May 21. Play is scheduled to begin both days at 8:30 a.m., and brackets will be based on the skill level and age of the participants. Each team will get to play at least two matches, and medals will be awarded to the winners in each bracket.

The player that hits the ball will make the call, but for the tournament, paid officials will be available for the medal games. A recognition ceremony will be held at noon on May 20 to acknowledge the dignitaries who made the tournament possible.

The rise of interest in pickleball has been phenomenal in the last few years, according to Stan Myers, chairman of the Washington Park Pickleball Club. The game is not limited to warmer climates, as Myers discovered two years ago when the club's membership increased from 15 to 17 people to around 40 members.

Myers said anyone interested in joining the Washington Park Pickleball Club is welcome to join. The charge is $30 for the summer (May 1-Sept. 30), and there are minimal fees that are due, but the club will work with anyone and help them learn the game.

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