On August 29, HSCA hosted its first Community Pickleball Tournament, bringing together players of different ages and experience levels for a morning of friendly competition, fun and plenty of opportunities to connect. The tournament was a great first for HSCA, with participants cheering each other on, enjoying the games and getting to know one another along the way.
For Imran, who leads HSCA’s pickleball programming and organized the tournament, one of the highlights was seeing newer players feel confident enough to join in. Some participants had only recently tried pickleball for the first time before deciding to sign up for the tournament.
It's something Imran has really enjoyed seeing through HSCA's regular pickleball program.
“I really enjoy running pickleball at HSCA because I want everyone to feel comfortable trying the game, especially those who are picking up a paddle for the first time,” Imran shared.
Much of the program's growth has happened through word of mouth, with participants inviting friends, family and colleagues to give pickleball a try. Many come back after their first session and gradually become regular players.
“What starts as simply trying a new sport often turns into making new friends, building confidence, and becoming part of the community around pickleball,” Imran explained.
The tournament was a chance to bring some of those familiar faces together, welcome newer players and enjoy a little friendly competition. Imran also received great feedback from participants, particularly about the opportunity to meet new people and make connections.
With the success of the first tournament, Imran hopes to build on the momentum, potentially making it an annual or semi-annual event while continuing to grow pickleball programming at HSCA.
We're so pleased to see how the program continues to bring people together, whether they're trying pickleball for the first time or returning to play each week.
Interested in giving pickleball a try?
HSCA offers regular pickleball programming, and new players are welcome! Visit our pickleball page: https://www.hsca.ca/pickleball