CLEVELAND — The recent rise in popularity of pickleball has led to an increased demand for courts dedicated to the sport in Northeast Ohio.
That won't be a problem this winter, however, with Cleveland set to host the inaugural "Pickle in the Land" pickleball tournament.
Hosted by the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, Rock Entertainment Group and Topnotch Events, the event will take place from Dec. 15-17 at the Huntington Convention Center. According to a release, the tournament will feature nearly 30 courts and more than 1,000 participants of all skill levels competing for $25,000 in total prize money.
Additionally, the tournament will feature a pro division comprised of professional players, who will also be offering clinic opportunities for individuals, groups, and company team building events.
"Pickle in the Land" projects to be one of the largest -- if not the largest -- pickleball events in Northeast Ohio.
More information regarding the tournament can be found at www.pickleintheland.com.
According to USA Pickleball, more than 36 million people played the sport in 2022 -- up from over five million in 2021. In May, 3News spoke to pickleball ambassador Rick Warsinskey regarding the sport's growing popularity in Northeast Ohio.
“I do think the cities are recognizing that there’s a great demand because they hear from their own residents that they want courts,” Warsinskey said. “I’ve seen a number of meetings are being held by council and the mayors are getting involved and the park districts, to try and find places to build courts and come up with the money. I think they’re making good efforts to fill as many courts.”