Pickleball, it seems, is all the rage these days. The sport, which for years has made headlines for its distinct sounds, accessibility and dramatic rise in popularity, is now a community centre staple enjoyed by many across the country – and Sooke is no exception.
Now, the Sooke Pickleball Club is bringing a competitive edge to the oft-casual game with the Sooke Paddle Battle.
It’s set to be the community's first-ever pickleball tournament, drawing strong interest from players across Vancouver Island and beyond, with event registration now full.
The tournament will be held May 3-4 at SEAPARC Leisure Complex, where six courts will welcome competitors in three tournament formats – mixed doubles, men's doubles and women’s doubles – across skill levels from 3.0 (intermediate players) to open.
"This tournament is about more than just pickleball," says tournament director Asaan Maherali.
"It’s a celebration of Sooke’s growing pickleball community and an opportunity to showcase how vibrant and welcoming our town is to players of all backgrounds."
Tournament play will begin at 8 a.m. on May 3 and 4, running until 8 p.m. each day.
Spectators are welcome to attend the event for free, to check out the action, support local athletes and experience “the excitement of one of Canada’s fastest-growing sports,” writes SEAPARC Leisure Complex in a press release.
