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Dinks and DrivesST LOUIS

Pickleball In Saint Louis Is Bigger Than Ever

by Bill Clevlen January 6, 2020
by Bill Clevlen

In the last few years pickleball has caught fire and gained popularity in nearly every corner of America. You’ll have no trouble finding evidence of that in Saint Louis, Missouri.  With more than 40 places to play around the region, Saint Louis makes up one of the largest communities of pickleball players in the country.  Pickleball is often referred to as “the fastest growing sport”.  For Saint Louisans, the sport was growing long before most people in America had ever heard of the word “dink”.

I happen to know a thing or two about pickleball in Saint Louis because it’s my home town.  That’s also why I decided to feature our city in the first segment of Dinks and Drives.

In the summer of 2019, I pitched an idea to Gamma Sports, a nationally known producer of tennis and pickleball equipment. I wanted to highlight places around the U.S. where folks are playing pickleball, but I wanted to feature places that were welcoming and had at least one interesting tourist attraction  As a professional travel writer, I highlight road trip ideas and share stories about big cities and small towns across the country.  I’ve seen pickleball being played in many of the towns I’ve visited – and figured this would be an easy, natural fit.  Most pickleball players like to travel and the idea was to give people ideas for road trips where they can meet fellow pickleball players along the way.  For example, in this first episode – we feature the world famous Saint Louis Zoo.  In this first episode – you’ll see a sneak peek of their incredible sea lion show.

There was one other component that I mentioned in my pitch and for me, it was the most important.  I wanted to feature people that play this great game – mostly for fun.  I don’t worry too much about tournaments, and don’t particularly need any medals.  I just like getting together with people that are fun, welcoming, laid back, and friendly – to play pickleball.

As we continue to do these segments, I’m excited about highlighting groups around the country that fit this bill.  There are definitely places around Saint Louis where visitors are most welcome.  Whether it’s showing up for open play at the courts in world famous Forest Park or popping into the local Salvation Army gymnasium during the winter months for a game.  You’ll find people that are inviting and eager to play with folks from out of town.

If you’d like to learn about places where you can play in Saint Louis – check out the website: stlouispickleball.com for a complete list of venues and fees.  Many of the outdoor parks offer free play while some charge on popular nights.  Almost every indoor venue has some sort of fee that ranges from $2.00 to more than $10.00.

Please enjoy this first segment of Dinks and Drives, share it with your pickleball friends, and be sure to comment on social media if your town or city welcomes visitors!  Be sure to share your favorite local tourist attraction as well – that’s a must to qualify.  Look forward to seeing you on the road and on the courts!

 

Gamma Sports Dinks & Drives Pickleball

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Bill Clevlen

Bill Clevlen is a travel journalist, broadcaster and freelance writer based in Saint Louis, Missouri. His stories can be heard on radio and television, including on SiriusXM Satellite Radio or read in traditional media outlets like The Los Angeles Times. He's the author of four travel books - 100 Things To Do In America Before You Die, Driving Across America An American Road Trip For Kids, and Finding The American Dream.

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5 comments

Mickey Collins January 14, 2020 - 6:48 am

Looking forward to your writings.

Mike Najjar January 10, 2020 - 10:43 am

Excellent post, Bill. The St Louis pickleball community welcomes out of town guests. There are multiple places to play every day of the week, and for your post game refreshments there are lots of options.

Bill Clevlen January 10, 2020 - 5:25 pm

Thanks, Mike! I agree!!

Lisa frumhoff January 10, 2020 - 6:20 am

Fabulous story, Bill! I love that you covered our Stlouis growth in this game! September 2017 I started playing and it’s transformed my life, literally! We could do a story just on how many people’s lives have been transformed in an amazing joyous way to bring life back to us. The stories are countless.
Keep up the great work!!!

Bill Clevlen January 10, 2020 - 5:25 pm

Thanks for the kind words!!!

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