Pickleball: Perfect for Fitness and Friendships

A pickleball partnership at The University of Scranton provided a novel employee wellness option in a post-pandemic climate. Since then, the pastime’s popularity among the Royal community has mirrored its phenomenal pick-up rate on a national level. Why? Experts say it’s a perfect match for a broad range of ages and abilities.

According to Dina Angeloni, Program Coordinator of the Center for Health Education and Wellness (CHEW) Employee Wellness Program, Drop-in Pickleball for staff and faculty began in August 2021 during COVID-19.

“At the time, pickleball was rapidly growing in popularity and was accessible to people of varying abilities. To introduce faculty and staff to the sport, we partnered with Campus Recreation to offer a limited series of instructional sessions,” said Angeloni.

“The response was so positive that we decided to continue our partnership with Campus Recreation, offering pickleball as a Weekly Wellness Class for staff and faculty ever since.”

In 2023, more than 36.5 million people played pickleball, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP.) That number represents a significant leap from just five million players in 2021, according to Growing Bolder broadcasting and media production company.

Not Familiar With Pickleball?

Jane Johnson, director of recreational sports at the University, describes it as similar to tennis, racquetball and ping pong with a low-intimidation entry point.  

“There are a few rules regarding where you can stand and hit the ball in the air,” said Johnson.

“It’s a nice opportunity for staff to get together and have some good laughs and enjoy some exercise. … It can be for young kids to older adults.”

Angeloni touted the wellness aspect.

“There are so many benefits to pickleball, such as improving cardiovascular health, enhancing coordination and balance, strengthening social connection through interaction with colleagues and offering a low-impact activity that is easy on the joints.”

Find out how pickleball got its name, and the origins of the game at USAPickleball.org

Staff and Faculty Success

Drop-in Pickleball for staff and faculty occurs every Tuesday from 12–1 p.m. at Byron Gym, where currently six nets are available for play, according to Angeloni.

“Our Pickleball Weekly Wellness Class has been a big hit with staff and faculty! Some employees even joined leagues outside the University after trying it here. What started as a short series has grown into a weekly class, with up to 15 people joining each session,” she said.

“We've heard great feedback about our Pickleball Weekly Wellness Class—there’s lots of laughter, and many participants come back each week. Employees appreciate the chance to stay active, connect with colleagues, and take a fun midday break. Many have also enjoyed learning something new and picking up a sport they can continue to play,” added Angeloni.

Post-Pickleball Recap

Relatively new to the sport, Susan Falbo, operations coordinator, physical plant, and Mark Murphy, director of sustainability and energy management, offered their thoughts after completing a Tuesday Drop-in match.

“It’s good exercise, as you can see. We're sweating,” Falbo joked.

Murphy, who has been playing since October 2024, reflected on the health benefits and the flexibility of the session schedule and crowd.

“I like that it gives me some good cardio, and it also helps with reaction time,” said Murphy. “Whoever shows up, they mix and match. One game might take 10 to 15 minutes. Usually, you can fit three games in a session.”

After an introduction to pickleball at the University, Falbo incorporated newly gained skills into her leisure time, including on vacation and in her Midvalley community.

“I don't play hard. That’s what I like about it. My husband, who's 72, plays. My sister is 70, my brother-in-law is 73 and they play.”

Falbo’s favorite aspect of the game aligns with its description as “the rare sport that can be immediately enjoyed by almost anyone of any age, fitness level, ability…” according to a recent Growing Bolder article “Pickleball Goes Viral: What’s Driving the Pickleball Phenomenon?”

Tapping Into a Trend

That take on the sport tracks with its universal appeal at Scranton, according to Johnson.

“Our rec sports program has evolved over the years. We try to go along with some of the trends. Pickleball was one of the more recent ones that we've added,” said Johnson, referencing the extensive intramural program that includes 10-plus sports throughout the academic year.

“Students sign up by semester, usually within the first two weeks. We form leagues and follow a schedule of play. We organize playoffs, and students get a T-shirt at the end of the semester.”


Healthy competition. Shown, four Royals at a recent Drop-in Pickleball session for staff and faculty.

Ready To Give Pickleball a Shot?

Angeloni offers advice for anyone considering either the Drop-in Pickleball sessions for staff and faculty, or the recreational program for students.

• “Don’t be intimidated to try something new. Jane Johnson, our fantastic partner in Rec Sports, is a wealth of knowledge with Pickleball instruction and we make sure there are games for every skill level.”

• “No experience? No problem! Just show up and play! Drop-in Pickleball happens every Tuesday from 12–1 p.m. at Byron Gym. We’ve got all the equipment, so you don’t need to bring anything. Want more info or to join our mailing list? Email chew@scranton.edu.