Pickleball passion ignites Africa on special day
The Confederation of African Pickleball, formed in 2023 with just a handful of countries, has rallied an impressive 19 associated members, with Pickleball South Africa leading the charge.
August 17 marked a significant day for pickleball enthusiasts across Africa, as they celebrated Africa Pickleball Day. This momentous occasion was conceptualised by the Confederation of African Pickleball, which was formed in 2023.
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Deryn Graham, from the newly established GPC Pickleball Club in Paulshof, shared valuable insights on why this day holds special importance for them as a club.
She said the confederation started with just a handful of countries, however, there are now 19 associated members in confederation, of which Pickleball South Africa, our official national federation, is one.
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“Eleven more countries are in the process of forming associations, bringing the total number of African countries playing pickleball to 30. By comparison, padel has courts in only five countries in Africa.
“Africa Pickleball Day is set to spread the love of the game and to show people the low barrier to entry. Some places in Africa started playing pickleball on the sand, with only a string net and home-engineered paddles. But now, with assistance from the Global Pickleball Federation, they are receiving much-needed equipment and, in some cases, help with infrastructure, development, and the know-how on building courts.”
One of the key factors contributing to pickleball’s popularity is its accessibility. Pickleball can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. It’s an ideal activity for families, retirees, and athletes alike.
“South Africa’s first court was established in 2018 in Memel in the Free State by Memel Global, an NPO that works with rural farming communities. Since then, courts have sprung up in most provinces and to date there are over 40 clubs and schools playing pickleball throughout the country, with many more planned.”
The owner of GPC Pickleball Club, Allon Rock, said they celebrated Africa Pickleball Day which was an inclusive and free fun day to get new and existing players to come together and enjoy playing the game of pickleball.
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