Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with nearly 19.8 million Americans participating — a 45.8% increase since 2023. Oak Hammock has a perfect pickleball court located in a wooded area near the four-way stop sign on the main entrance road.

The pickleball league plays three times per week: Monday, Thursday and Saturday mornings from 8 to 9 a.m. Pickleball players include Oak Hammock residents along with their friends and family. Regular resident players range in age from the mid-70s to mid-90s, and all skill levels are welcome.

The rhythmic plonk-plonk of pickleballs echoes through the fenced, former tennis court. The original tennis lines are still visible, but four dedicated outdoor pickleball courts—with painted lines and nets—now overlay the surface. The maintenance team keeps the area clean, blowing off debris and leaves before recreational play begins. Oak Hammock also provides balls and a few rackets in the courtside storage bin.

The pickleball community at Oak Hammock is all about social pickleball fun. An enthusiastic group of active adults, the league has mixed abilities and is always happy to welcome newcomers to join. No sign-up is needed—just show up. The league players will explain the rules and have you playing in minutes, so pickleball lessons are not required. Many players are former (and some current) tennis players or come from other paddle sports like badminton, racquetball or ping pong. The smaller court size suits the senior population well.

Players of all levels partner up, and friendly pickleball enthusiasts cheer from the sidelines between games. They don’t record wins or losses—it’s all about having fun. The only “rule” for each player is, no saying “sorry” if you miss a point.

Players enjoy wonderful camaraderie, supportive but spirited play and plenty of laughs. Best of all, it’s great exercise and improves overall fitness, while adding to daily step count goals.