A sport once unfamiliar to most Australians is rapidly gaining ground in the Hawkesbury, with local players travelling across Sydney to compete in one of the country’s fastest-growing games, pickleball.
Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is attracting players of all ages thanks to its simple rules, social appeal and growing reputation as a low-impact way to stay active. Health experts say the sport’s smaller court and slower pace make it easier on joints than traditional tennis, while still delivering strong cardiovascular benefits.
Now, with regular sessions at PCYC NSW Hawkesbury and growing participation at Richmond Tennis Centre, the sport is building a strong foothold in the region.
Players from the district were among more than 1,000 competitors who headed to Blacktown Leisure Centre earlier this month for the 2026 NSW Pickleball Championships, run by Pickleball NSW. The three-day event showcased the sport’s rapid rise, with divisions spanning juniors through to seniors and a wide range of skill levels.
Among the medal winners in one of the championship divisions were Minh Hien Nguyen (gold), Harry Bui (silver) and Van Loi Nguyen (bronze), highlighting the strong level of competition now seen across the state.
Locally, interest is surging.
“Pickleball is easy to learn but still competitive, which is why we’re seeing such a mix of ages getting involved,” a spokesperson said. “You can come down for a social hit or start training for tournaments there’s a real pathway now.”
For local player Anna, the appeal goes beyond competition.
“I started for fitness, but it’s the social side that keeps you coming back,” she said.
“It’s not intimidating like some sports, you’ve got teenagers and retirees on the same court, and everyone just has a go. I’m moving more than I have in years, and it doesn’t feel like exercise.”
Inclusivity is also becoming a defining feature of the sport’s growth. Organisers say players of all abilities are being welcomed onto the court, including those living with disability.
At the recent state championships, a Hybrid Doubles event paired one player with a disability alongside a non-disabled teammate, a format designed to promote participation and connection across all levels of ability.
“With participation rising, the focus is on keeping pickleball open to everyone,” the spokesperson said. “It’s one of those rare sports where beginners and experienced players and players of all abilities can share the court. That’s what’s driving the community around it.”
With courts filling and paddles in high demand, pickleball is quickly becoming a regular feature of the Hawkesbury sporting landscape delivering not just competition, but a boost to community health and connection.
Residents interested in giving the sport a try can learn more and find a local venue through Pickleball NSW’s “Get Started” page, as well as information on para and hybrid formats designed to make the game accessible to all.
https://www.pickleballnsw.org/play/get-started-playing-pickleball
