Three years ago, pickleball was virtually nonexistent at Harvard, but the rapid nationwide growth of the sport has transformed the Harvard Pickleball Club into a vibrant community with 50 active members, regular practices, and a competitive team aiming for national championships. Originating from informal games with inexpensive equipment, the club has grown to become the first organized Ivy League pickleball club, balancing inclusive recreational play with a competitive squad that recently qualified for the prestigious 2025 Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating collegiate national championship in Atlanta.
The club’s appeal lies in pickleball’s accessibility and social nature, attracting a diverse mix of players from different backgrounds and skill levels, fostering a strong community on campus. Despite challenges like limited court space and a temporary club recognition freeze, the team has made significant strides in competitive play, advancing through regional qualifiers and securing a spot at nationals. As the founding members graduate, the club’s leadership is focused on maintaining the inclusive culture and continuing to grow both recreationally and competitively, positioning Harvard as a rising force in collegiate pickleball.
