Demand for pickleball continues to grow at Augusta University
By Ana Winters | Sports writer
In recent years, one sport has captured the attention of millions of Americans with unprecedented speed, pickleball.
It has easily become one of the fastest-growing sports, and the numbers tell the story. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, more than 19 million people played pickleball in 2024, representing a 311 percent increase in participation since 2021.
Augusta already has a number of courts, ranging from public parks to private clubs, but one of the most popular is DiNK’D. It is dedicated entirely to indoor pickleball. DiNK’D represents both the professionalization and the community spirit of the sport.
Located on Furys Ferry Road in Martinez, DiNK’D offers nine indoor courts with permanent nets and professional surfaces. This allows players to compete and practice without any disruption from Georgia’s intense heat or storms. This reliability makes it possible for pickleball to keep going year-round, and this is a major advantage for both casual players and serious competitors.
What truly sets DiNK’D apart is that the facility features a full kitchen and bar, embracing its motto of “DiNK, DRiNK and DiNE.” DiNK’D also embraces accessibility by allowing both members and non-members to book courts, join leagues and participate in tournaments.
Beyond accessibility, on-campus courts serve as a bridge between discovery and competition. Students new to the sport can casually try it out in a low-pressure environment, while more serious players can use the same courts for practice before moving on to DiNK’D’s structured leagues or competitive tournaments. The social and inclusive nature of the sport also makes it especially valuable for college campuses.
Unlike sports that require advanced skill or physical specialization, pickleball is welcoming to all ability levels. Doubles play encourages interaction and teamwork, exactly the kinds of connections that help new students integrate into campus life.
Augusta University offers a pickleball class for an option as a wellness class. Students are required to take two wellness classes before graduating. This class is held at Christenberry Fieldhouse and has limited spaces.
The potential benefits also extend to recruitment, prospective students increasingly weigh campus wellness and recreation in their college decisions so vibrant facilities like pickleball courts not only enhance the student experience but can also serve as a marketing tool during tours and orientation. In addition this could add another intramural.
Now at Augusta University there is a Pickleball and Badminton Club that offers students more than just a traditional club experience. It is a space to meet new people and enjoy friendly competition. The sessions are centered around playing pickleball or badminton, with the meetings rotating between indoor games at Christenberry and outdoor matches at Raes Creek to give everyone a variety of experiences.
“We also celebrate special occasions like birthdays and holidays with food and themed events,” said Alex Dua, the president of the club, which aims to create a fun and inclusive atmosphere.
Dua said the clubs welcomes players of all skill levels from complete beginners to seasoned athletes.
The club continues to grow and evolve with the goal of keeping members actively engaged. This semester, the club will be represented at the Health Science Club Fest on Aug. 27, where they’ll be partnering with the “Augusta Bhangra Club” to spread the word and invite even more students to join.
From a financial point of view, pickleball courts are relatively cost-efficient compared to larger athletic facilities. They require less space than tennis courts, and upkeep is modest. But the return on investment in terms of student engagement, wellness, and community can be huge and with the demand rising it is safe to say the sport will remain popular for years to come.
In the end, the growth of pickleball in Augusta mirrors the national trend. Augusta University has wisely chosen to align itself with that momentum with having a pickleball class. The next logical step is to bring the sport directly onto campus, embedding it into the daily life of students. This would enrich campus wellness, community, and fun.
Contact Ana Winters at anwinters@augusta.edu.
Students in a wellness class practice their pickleball techniques in Christenberry Fieldhouse. At the top of the page, Graham Hollrah (L) play pickleball with Department of Kinesiology instructor Harve Mobley. (photos by Ana Winters/the Bell Ringer)
