Pickleball's Full Story is Revealed in History of Pickleball: More Than 50 Years of Fun!

by laurapbc on May 1, 2018

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Pickleball is still a young sport, but in the 50 or so years it's been around it's undergone many exciting changes. For the first time, the story of America's fastest-growing sport has been cataloged in a comprehensive book by pro player Jennifer Lucore and her mother, Beverly Youngren.

History of Pickleball

In History of Pickleball: More Than 50 Years of Fun! you'll find details on how pickleball got its start on Bainbridge Island , the USAPA's development, international pickleball destinations and more. The tome not only includes plenty of facts, but firsthand knowledge based on Jennifer and Beverly's extensive experience in the industry.

There are even engaging stories from founders Barney McCallum, Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell.

This book tackles some of the big questions like the pickleball name debate... was it based on a dog or a rowboat? Will we ever know? You'll have to read the book to find out!

It also has some of the greatest pickleball tales we've gotten to enjoy thus far. In a chapter on Florida and The Villages, there are several hilarious reprints of articles from a newspaper written by George Brewer. Here's a quote about pickleball vs tennis (all in good fun):

'Listen to this: the guys on the tennis courts wear shirts with collars. I'm not lying! These freshly starched ironed shirts even have all their buttons on them. Shazam! If I show up on the pickleball court in a shirt turned right side out that has fewer than two holes in it and shorts that haven't faded two shades lighter, I'm overdressed.'

While we know there are some pickleball fashionistas out there, it's certainly true most players tend to be less fussy and more on the scrappy side... and newbies are always welcome!

Jennifer and Beverly Beverly Youngren and Jennifer Lucore

This is a wonderful purchase for anyone interested in all the details about pickleball's history paired with many enjoyable anecdotes and interviews. Those who want deeper insight into their favorite sport shouldn't miss out.

Chapter titles include:

  • The Summer of 65
  • Playing on the Early Courts and Growth
  • Pickle-Ball, The Corporation
  • Pukaball – Early Years on Maui
  • Washington
  • Trade Shows
  • The Name
  • Paddles
  • Rules
  • U.S.A.P.A.
  • Arizona
  • Tournaments
  • Pickleball Around the World
  • And much more…

You can read an excerpt from the book's introduction over at Jennifer's blog or buy it within the coming days at our PickleballCentral store. Dig into the juicy details and get ready to be the biggest pickleball buff on the courts!