Pickleball University began with a few passionate players, a set of portable nets, and chalked lines on a condo parking lot. What started as a small group caravanning around Vero Beach in search of a place to play quickly grew into something much bigger. Their dedication eventually led them to Pocahontas Park, where they laid the foundation—literally and figuratively—for what would become the hub of pickleball in the area.

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With the sport’s growing popularity, the City of Vero Beach recognized its potential and installed six dedicated pickleball courts in 2015. True to the saying, “Build it and they will come,” the courts attracted more players, and soon membership soared. Today, with 12 courts and over 1100 members, Pickleball University has become a vibrant, welcoming community.

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Thanks to a long-term agreement with the city and generous support from our members, sponsors, and volunteers, we’ve developed one of the areas top pickleball facilities—refurbishing courts, adding lighting for night play, and creating a space that’s as much about community as it is about competition.

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Pickleball University continues to thrive because of the people who believe in it—friendly faces who welcome newcomers, mentor beginners, and show up not just to play, but to connect. Because here, pickleball isn’t just a sport. It’s a way of life.