Youth sports in the United States are evolving rapidly, with new participation trends, shifting preferences, and emerging sports reshaping how kids stay active. According to the Aspen Institute’s Project Play State of Play 2025 report, overall youth sports participation is rebounding, with more than 55% of children ages 6–17 playing organized sports and even higher numbers trying sports casually. Yet, the landscape is changing in meaningful ways, especially with the rise of newer, more accessible activities like pickleball.
Trends
One of the most notable trends highlighted in the report is the explosive growth of pickleball among young athletes. Participation among children ages 6–12 has doubled in just two years, reaching approximately 2.2 million players, while teens ages 13–17 have seen a 157% increase in participation over the same period. This surge reflects a broader shift toward sports that are easy to learn, affordable, and adaptable to different skill levels.
Why Pickleball?
Pickleball’s appeal lies in its simplicity and inclusivity. Unlike many traditional youth sports that require extensive equipment, travel, and specialization, pickleball can be played on smaller courts with minimal gear. This aligns with another key Project Play finding that casual and flexible forms of play are growing in popularity, as families look for lower-cost and lower-pressure options. As youth sports costs continue to rise, up 46% since 2019, accessible sports like pickleball are helping fill participation gaps and keep kids engaged.
At the same time, the growth of pickleball among youth signals a broader cultural shift. Today’s young athletes are less likely to specialize early and more likely to explore multiple sports or nontraditional activities. The rapid expansion of pickleball across all age groups shows how quickly a sport can scale when it meets the needs of modern families.
AU Making Waves
As pickleball continues to establish itself in schools, community centers, and local programs, coaching and skill development are becoming increasingly important, especially for younger players just starting out. This is where organizations like Athletes Untapped play a key role. By offering private pickleball coaching for youth, Athletes Untapped provides personalized instruction that helps players build confidence, improve fundamentals, and develop a lifelong love of the game. Their approach aligns with the broader trends in youth sports, meeting athletes where they are, prioritizing positive experiences, and making sports more accessible for the next generation.
