Pickleball Star Plays In Bethesda: Watch The World Champion

BETHESDA, MD — You may not have heard of it, but pickleball has been touted as the fastest growing sport in the country, as seen in The Economist. Next week you can give it a try yourself at the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase, before watching the top U.S. player compete alongside his brother to take on some local pickleball players.

The YMCA will run a clinic where newcomers can learn from the pros — it runs from 1 to 3 p.m. on June 7 and will cost $150 for members and $175 for non-members.

If you think you can hold your own in a game, you can register for the Round Robin tournament right after that, where 32 participants will compete for a shot at first place. That's$40 for a member and $50 for a non-member to register.

Finally, top player Ben Johns of Laytonsville will play with his brother, Collin, to take on Sonny Tannan and Eric White, local pickleball players.

The executive vice president of the YMCA said Bethesda and Chevy Chase residents have already had a great response to the sport.

“The response to pickleball has been overwhelming by our members," said Pamela Curran, executive vice president and COO of the YMCA, in a news release. "Pickleball is an inclusive and social sport where you do not need to be athletic but still challenges you physically. There are less injuries for adults, and it improves eye-hand coordination for children.

"We are proud that the Y will have a dedicated space that allows for individuals to meet other people and families to connect more. Pickleball is the perfect pandemic sport since people can still socially distance and get great exercise both outdoors and indoors at an extremely affordable price.”

To pay to play or register to watch the free match, sign up online.