Spring Hill Christian Academy Launches Exciting New Pickleball Program for Students
Pickleball Fever Sweeps Through Hernando: Spring Hill Christian Academy Launches First County Program
Hernando, FL – Pickleball fever is sweeping through Hernando County, and at the forefront of this exciting trend is the Spring Hill Christian Academy Wildcats, who have become the first academic institution in the area to launch a pickleball program. This initiative, which kicked off earlier this year, is already making waves in the local sports community.
The Wildcats are currently in the midst of their inaugural season as a member of the Suncoast Christian Conference. The idea for introducing pickleball emerged during discussions among athletic directors looking to add a spring sport. Noticing that many churches across Florida already had active pickleball leagues, a vote was held in January, leading to the official formation of the Wildcats’ team in March.
Co-Athletic Director Kristin Hahn played a pivotal role in this initiative, consulting with experienced coaches Brian and Kiera Little. Coach Kiera, who previously led a homeschool pickleball cooperative at the Christian Church in the Wildwood, had already sparked significant interest in the sport among local youth. “When I created my first pickleball class, we had to implement a waitlist due to overwhelming demand,” she shared. “It just exploded.”
The enthusiasm for pickleball is palpable, and the Littles are passionate about sharing their love for the game. “We felt led to continue our passion and teach other kids about the sport,” Coach Kiera added, expressing gratitude to Athletic Director Hahn for the opportunity to engage with the community.
To gauge interest, the coaches held a clinic that attracted 18 eager participants, leading to tryouts where 14 student-athletes ultimately made the team. “There were already whispers of excitement before the program was even confirmed,” Coach Brian noted, with parents reaching out to inquire about the new venture.
Despite the growing interest, pickleball programs for youth remain scarce compared to established sports like football and basketball. Coaches like Brian and Kiera are advocating for the sport’s unique appeal: its accessibility. “Anyone can play it,” Coach Brian emphasized. “You can be five years old or 85 years old.” This inclusivity allows families to engage together, with many parents even participating in competitive tournaments.
“It’s a fantastic way for families to bond and spend quality time together,” Coach Kiera remarked. Athletic Director Hahn echoed this sentiment, highlighting how pickleball offers an opportunity for kids who may not feel comfortable in traditional sports to get involved in athletics.
The Wildcats have already seen remarkable growth among their players, with six students who had never held a pickleball paddle before the pre-season clinic now contributing to the team’s impressive undefeated record of 3-0. The team is set to play three matches this week, with a key game scheduled at Elfers Christian on Friday.
Thanks to the school’s newly finished courts, players can now compete right on campus, eliminating the need for travel. The program also received a boost from R.A.W. (Reign and Win) Pickleball, which provided custom paddles at a reduced cost, a significant advantage for a fledgling team.
As the Wildcats continue to hone their skills and compete, the program is not just about sports; it embodies the school’s commitment to providing a Christ-centered experience for its students. “This has been a great option for our kids,” Athletic Director Hahn stated, reflecting on the positive impact of the new program.
With the support of dedicated coaches and an enthusiastic community, the future of pickleball at Spring Hill Christian Academy looks bright, promising to inspire a new generation of athletes in Hernando County.
