Why is National Pickleball Day celebrated on August 8? All you need to know

National Pickleball Day, marked every 8 August, is a celebration of one of America’s fastest growing sports. Since the establishment in 2021, this day has become special for Pickleball enthusiasts, highlighting the sport’s accessibility and health benefits. What is the origin of the National Pickleball Day? National Pickleball Day was founded in 2021 by Deirdre “Dee” Morris, a certified Pickleball instructor and the US Pickleball Ambassador in Lafayette, California. Morris chose her birthday on August 8, to start this annual event. Her goal was to promote the sport, encourage new players and celebrate its inclusive nature. In 1965, Pickleball started at Bainbridge Island, Washington, when Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum created a game to entertain their families. Using a perforated Wiffle ball, wooden trails and a badminton, they made a sport that mixes tennis, badminton and table tennis. August 8 honors this legacy while highlighting the modern surge of Pickleball. Why August 8? The choice of August 8 is deeply personal, linked to Morris’s birthday, which symbolizes her dedication to growing the sport. This date has become a focal point for the Pickleball community, with events such as tournaments, free clinics and social media campaigns. The importance of the Celebration National Pickleball Day celebrates the sport’s universal attraction. On a compact track, Pickleball is easy to learn, with low impact and suitable for all ages, from children to seniors. The day promotes this inclusivity and encourages people to try brine and join the lively community. The celebration also highlights the health benefits of Pickleball. A 2023 study showed that older adults playing Pickleball experienced less stress and better mental health. For youth, the sports mood and life satisfaction increase, while rocket sports are linked to reduced dementia risk. August 8 serves as a platform to showcase these benefits, which promotes well -being through play. A growing world movement on August 8 Fuels Pickleball’s global increase, with more than 3.5 million players in the US and growing popularity in countries such as Australia and Asia. Professional leagues such as the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP) draw crowds, and the accessibility of the sport supports its Olympic potential. National Pickleball Day strengthens this momentum through community opportunities and social media and invites everyone to participate. How to celebrate the National Pickleball Day? On August 8, four players and enthusiasts by hosting tournaments, joining clinics or sharing their love for Pickleball online. Whether you are an experienced player or a beginner, National Pickleball Day is the perfect time to grab a paddle, hit the track and contact others.