Empoli, Italy – The rapidly growing sport of pickleball is gaining traction in Italy, with a new course set to launch at the PalAramini sports facility in Empoli. The course, organized by UISP Empoli Valdelsa, aims to introduce both enthusiasts and newcomers to the rules and fundamentals of this increasingly popular sport.
Pickleball, often described as a blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has experienced exponential growth worldwide in recent years. Played in 37 countries and attracting tens of millions of players, the sport arrived in Italy in 2018 and is now officially recognized by the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation. The course at PalAramini reflects this rising interest, providing a dedicated space for the sport which is described as being “a metà strada tra il tennis e il padel” – halfway between tennis and padel.
The course will run every Thursday from April 9th to June 11th, offering two time slots: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM and 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Organizers emphasize the accessibility of pickleball, noting that it requires minimal equipment and is suitable for all ages and skill levels. The sport’s origins trace back to 1965 in the United States, created by Joel Pritchard, a member of the US Congress, along with friends William Bell and Barney McCallum. Their goal was to devise a simple, affordable, and inclusive game for families and individuals of all ages.
The game itself is played on a badminton-sized court with a net 80cm high. Players apply paddles resembling those used in table tennis and padel, hitting a perforated plastic ball. Scoring typically involves reaching 11 points, winning by a margin of two points, and matches can be played as a single set or best-of-three. The relatively modest court size and slower ball speed compared to tennis make it easier to pick up, while still offering a challenging and engaging experience.
UISP Empoli Valdelsa is accepting registrations for the course. Interested individuals can contact them by phone at 0571 711533, email at [email protected], or visit their location at Via Basilicata 23 in Empoli. The organization’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/uispempoli/) also provides updates and information.
The growing popularity of pickleball isn’t limited to Italy. Just this month, Florida Atlantic University won the national pickleball championship, demonstrating the sport’s increasing presence in collegiate athletics. Worldwide, the International Pickleball Federation recognizes pickleball organizations in 37 countries, signaling its global expansion. Tournaments are becoming increasingly common, with several events scheduled in California in late March and April 2026, including the ID Sports Spring Doubles Championship in Irvine and the Newport Beach PPA Challenger (https://pickleballtournaments.com/).
For those unfamiliar with the sport, pickleball’s appeal lies in its accessibility and social nature. It’s a game that can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages and athletic abilities, fostering a sense of community among players. The relatively low cost of equipment – paddles and balls are significantly cheaper than tennis rackets and balls – further contributes to its widespread adoption.
The UISP Empoli Valdelsa course represents a significant step in bringing this exciting sport to a wider audience in Italy. With its blend of strategy, athleticism, and social interaction, pickleball is poised to grow a fixture in the Italian sporting landscape.
The next scheduled session of the course begins April 9th at PalAramini. Those interested in participating are encouraged to register promptly to secure their spot.
What are your thoughts on the growing popularity of pickleball? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
Related reading
