AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Thank you to all participants who responded to the TMPR Sports Pickleball Goals For 2024 survey. Congratulations to David Pratt and Kris Kazmierczak, whose names were drawn randomly to win our drawing for a Terra LX, Terra TC-16. They each received a TMPR Tour 2 backpack and their choice of a cap or visor. Your responses help us to understand your pickleball experience and what is important to you as a player.

PLAYER SKILL LEVELS

SELF-RATED LEVEL

The 2024 Pickleball Goals survey started by asking the skill level of the participants, and the results depicted that most respondents identified as intermediate-level players. The survey found that only 6% identified as beginners, while a 67% considered themselves intermediate-level players and 26% categorized themselves as advanced.

HOW PROGRESS IS MEASURED

When the players were asked how they measure their progress in pickleball, 49% self-evaluate their progress, 34% relied on league performance, and only 11% sought feedback from a pickleball coach.

AREAS INTERESTED IN IMPROVING

Regarding the areas for improvement in their pickleball game, 57% of players prioritized strategic gameplay, while 38% identified volley and net play as areas for improvement. Only 10% felt serving technique was an area they needed to improve.

GOALS

GENERAL GOALS

HEALTH & WELLNESS GOALS

Turning our attention to primary goals for pickleball in 2024, 37% expressed a desire to enhance overall fitness, while 36% aimed to achieve a specific skill level. The player community was evenly divided between those focusing on skill improvement and those prioritizing the health benefits of playing pickleball. This may reflect the perspective of tournament players verses recreational players. However, the majority of pickleball players recognize the sport as a crucial part of their fitness routine. Studies highlight the physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits of playing pickleball, emphasizing the social aspects of the sport.

FUTURE EVENT PARTICIPATION

EVENT PREFERENCES

Regarding pickleball event preferences for 2024, 61% of participants in the Pickleball Goals survey expressed interest in local club tournaments, whereas regional competitions garnered only 18% interest and National Championships only 5%. The emerging trend of pickleball festivals is gaining traction, with 14% wanting more participation in 2024. This positive response to local club tournaments is particularly encouraging for clubs relying on tournament events for income to support mixers and other activities for local players.

CLINIC/CAMP PREFERENCES

Regarding skill-enhancing pickleball workshops or clinics, 60% expressed occasional interest in camps, 25% preferred regular clinic attendance, and 15% favored independent learning.

CLINIC DURATION PREFERENCES

Regarding preferred clinic duration, 22% were interested in a 2-day camp, 36% preferred a 1-day camp, and 41% leaned toward a ½ day camp. The majority chose the more affordable and focused ½ day clinic, while a minority expressed interest in the intensive 2-day camp.