By Grace Bennett
Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, has officially landed its spot as one of UTampa’s newest club sports. Thanks to the initiative of president Will Rosswork and treasurer Sean Donovan, who realized that there were no pickleball events offered on campus, they decided to take matters into their own hands and make it a club sport.
Rosswork and Donovan asked their previous economics professor, Christopher Roby, if he would be interested in being the faculty advisor for the club. Roby gladly agreed.
“I thought being the advisor would be a wonderful opportunity to support my former students and also encourage students to get involved in a fun athletic and social activity,” said Roby.
Despite being in its early stages, the club is already gaining popularity on campus. The club’s launch has been met with extreme success amongst students. The open play sessions are held every Monday and Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bob Martinez Athletics Center, and each practice consistently draws large numbers of participants.
Donovan, a sophomore at UTampa, states that the student response to the club so far has exceeded all of the club officers’ expectations.
“We’ve seen a lot of people come back week after week, and we’re always filling up our court space, which is amazing,” said Donovan.
The Pickleball Club at UTampa invites students of all skill levels to join, whether you’ve never picked up a paddle or you’re already familiar with the game.
“We offer open court sessions for any student who wants to come by and play such a fun sport with people of similar interests,” said Donovan. “You’re welcome to bring your own paddle, but if you don’t have one, we’ve got extras for you to use.”
“It’s a fun, welcoming environment,” Donovan emphasized. “It’s a great way for students with shared interests to connect and have a good time.”
While the club is currently focused on its open-session practices, they have exciting goals set for the future.
“Over the next few years, we want to be able to compete in tournaments with other club teams across the state of Florida,” said Donovan. “Many other schools have club teams that compete against each other, and that’s something we want to get into.”
As this club keeps growing, students throughout the UTampa community are excited to see a club that finally involves pickleball.
Junior Julia Pece is excited to see that there is a group where she can learn more about the sport and join in on some matches.
“I’ve been waiting for not only a place to play but also for a group that I can play with,” said Pece.
This new club, created at the beginning of this semester, provides a great chance to have fun and connect over the sport.
“We just want to provide an opportunity on campus for students who enjoy pickleball to have fun and build connections,” said Roby.