Pickleball Becomes Varsity Sport in Maryland School System
Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland is making history by becoming the first school system in the United States to offer pickleball as a varsity sport. The announcement was made by Jeff Sullivan, the director of systemwide athletics, at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, MD, with the slogan “Pickleball for all.”
Pickleball, a sport that has seen a significant increase in popularity, with nearly 50 million American adults playing last year, is now being embraced by high school students in Montgomery County. The sport’s inclusive nature allows individuals of all ages and abilities to participate, making it a perfect fit for the school’s athletic program.
One student, Vinnie LaCosta, an 18-year-old senior with Down syndrome, found joy and exercise playing pickleball with his brothers. His father, Bill LaCosta, highlighted the benefits of the sport for Vinnie, emphasizing the constant movement and engagement it provides.
The varsity pickleball program is set to be expanded to all 25 high schools in the county, offering students like Tate Fasteau, a 15-year-old football player, a more casual and community-oriented sports experience. Fasteau noted the camaraderie and fun he experienced playing pickleball with his school team.
Professional pickleball player Vivian Glozman, who joined the students on the court, expressed excitement about the sport’s growth and the opportunity for high school students to participate in organized pickleball competitions. The future of pickleball in Montgomery County looks bright, with students having the chance to excel in the sport or simply enjoy a casual game with friends and family.
As pickleball continues to gain popularity across the country, Montgomery County Public Schools’ decision to introduce it as a varsity sport sets a precedent for other school systems to embrace the inclusive and engaging nature of the sport.
