In a surprising move, the Shadow Hills High School tennis courts have undergone a major transformation. With the conversion of two of the seven tennis courts into eight pickleball courts, Shadow has opened up new opportunities for the community to explore a growing sport.
Dr. Dunn, an avid pickleball player himself, is optimistic that Shadow’s staff will be interested in playing the game. He’d also like to see the formation of a pickleball club for students. Ultimately, he considers the conversion an update to the campus that benefits everyone, and promotes a positive school culture.
“I think it allows people to get out into a different setting, and be able to have fun, exercise, and interact with one another,” he explained.
With the game’s rising popularity in the United States — according to CNN, the game has seen a 224% increase in play over the last three years — it is often compared to tennis, badminton, and ping pong. The game consists of hitting a ball similar to a whiffle ball. The court is famous for the kitchen, an area where volleying is prohibited. The ball must bounce before it is hit if the player is inside the kitchen.
Not only does the conversion promote a new use for seldom-used facilities, but it also fosters a sense of inclusivity by welcoming players of varying skill levels. Due to pickleball’s smaller court size, more games can be played at the same time allowing for equally passionate and equally skilled players to play against each other.
Members of the faculty recently gathered to play together, and are enthusiastic about the new courts.
“[Pickleball] is fun because pickleball is more accessible to a larger population,” said golf coach and math teacher, Mr. Anziano, when comparing the game to tennis.
The new opportunities with the reimagined courts allow for an influential impact on a fresh generation of pickleball players. Shadow Hills High School can now be a hub for the game among high schoolers throughout the Coachella Valley.
“I can only hope we get students to enjoy playing and we have a lot of interest in the game,” said Mr. Anziano.
The PE classes will add a new pickleball unit, potentially allowing many students to discover a skill for a sport they otherwise wouldn’t play.
“I’m so excited to have something new to do in PE and to have fun with friends,” explained Aixa Maciel (’25).
