OCEAN SPRINGS, MS — Ocean Springs Middle School students will be learning a fast-growing sport this year thanks to a hometown assist from Ward 1 Alderman Steve Tillis and a few well-placed calls.
After parent Chelsea Prince flagged a need for paddles and balls, Tillis connected the school with Paddletek, a leading pickleball brand, through his longtime friend Jeff Cartier. Paddletek donated eight new paddles. Tillis also reached Andrea Robertson, a certified instructor with The Picklr in Biloxi, who donated 30 new pickleballs to help launch the program.
“I’m grateful to both Jeff and Andrea for stepping up to help our students,” Tillis said. “Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and this equipment will give our middle schoolers the opportunity to learn and enjoy a sport that promotes fitness, teamwork and fun.”
Why pickleball and why now?
Pickleball’s growth has been nothing short of explosive. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), the game remained the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for the fourth straight year, with 19.8 million Americans playing in 2024 — up 45.8% from 2023 and 311% over three years.
That boom is visible locally and regionally, too. The Picklr’s new Biloxi club lists 15 indoor courts and daily programming, making organized play more accessible on the Coast. Paddletek — whose gear the middle school just received — has been a recognizable name in the sport since 2010.
And it isn’t just private clubs. USA Pickleball’s Places2Play database reported 11,885 known U.S. play locations and 50,003 courts as of early 2024, with more being added every month — evidence that schools and cities are meeting demand.
Where Ocean Springs kids (and parents) can play
- Inner Harbor Park (127 Pine Dr.) — Outdoor courts with lights; free to play. Local listings note two dedicated courts plus additional lined courts.
- Ryan Youth Center (712 Pine St.) — Two indoor courts; lines are permanent and portable nets are available.
- West Jackson County Safe Room (St. Martin Shelter, 13000 Walker Rd.) — Two indoor courts with coaching hours posted during the week.
Bigger than a trend
Fans call pickleball the “just-show-up” sport: the court is smaller than tennis, the ball is lighter, and beginners can rally within minutes. That low barrier to entry explains why participation is surging across all ages, from middle schoolers to retirees.
For Ocean Springs, the new equipment is a small investment with outsized upside: more kids moving, more families discovering a lifetime sport, and one more reason to get outside.
Have a student at OSMS? Ask your PE teacher when pickleball units begin and how to get involved. If you’re looking to play beyond school, check the sites above for open-play times and beginner clinics.
