What started out as a casual idea between friends has quickly turned into one of Woodgroves most popular clubs. The Pickleball Club, founded and led by senior Logan Rand, has a full roster every meeting and has received thousands of dollars in donated equipment, all without members paying a cent.
Originally, the Pickleball Club was started as a pastime. “I started the club last year. It was just a fun thing for my buddies to do,” Rand said. “We did not think it was going to take off. It definitely exceeded our expectations.” Now, the Pickleball Club meets both green and blue club days while also reaching full capacity each week. According to Rand, the start up of this club has changed from a pastime to something much larger. He said, “The real reason we started it is it’s a great community to meet people and also work with everyone at the school and have a good time.”
Club meetings require much preparation before students are involved, the leadership team starts by setting up courts before even just the first bell rings. “Before school even starts we are out by the courts setting stuff up,” Rand said. “Then, right after first block, we are out there setting up as well.” During meetings, Rand, along with his team, teaches rules, answers questions, and converses about future events. Senior Vice President John Sacoolas said that the Pickleball Club was both organized and relaxed. Sacoolas described, “People start coming out and they just all start playing. We help coach a little, but mostly we just have a good time.” Sophomore club member Spencer Newbold is a big fan and attends the club every other week. Newbold stated, “I show up, check myself in with Mr. Dyke, grab a ball and a partner, and then I just play.”
A key component to the club’s success is the large amount of donations they have received. Instead of purchasing supplies, Rand reaches out to pickleball companies. Rand said, “It’s kind of brutal, I cold email. I think I have already sent 100 cold emails this year.” However, it is working, and this year alone the club has received around $3000 worth in donations, with an estimated $6000 worth of donations throughout the club’s time. Rand reminisced, “We got [a donation] this year where they sent us 10 $250 dollar paddles, that was fun to open during school.” Club advisor Mr. Ryan Dyke acknowledged Rand’s efforts. Dyke said, “I think he does an awesome job fundraising and getting donations. A lot of kids would not do something like that, but he does.” This new equipment has made quite the difference, allowing more and better play. Newbold stated, “Previously, it was hard for everyone to get a racket, but now there’s a surplus of equipment, so it’s easier for everyone to participate.”
Overall, Pickleball Club is an easy way to stay active, social, and relaxed during the school day. “It’s fun, you stay active, and you’ll meet a lot of new people. It’s just a great place to be,” Rand said. “It’s a great way to stay active throughout the school day and have fun with friends,” Newbold added. Don’t be afraid to join, it’s worth it. “I think it’s for anyone who wants to come out, have fun, get in the sunshine, be active. Don’t be afraid to come out, we always have a good time,” Dyke emphasised.
