Pickleball, a sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has quickly become the go-to recreational activity for older adults. While many communities have only recently begun to integrate the sport into their amenities, Cal-Am Resorts, a leading developer of 55+ active lifestyle communities, saw its potential early on. By investing in top-tier pickleball facilities, hosting tournaments, and fostering a culture of active engagement, Cal-Am has played a pivotal role in reinvigorating retiree communities.
Early Adoption: Seeing the Trend Before It Took Off
Long before pickleball became the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., Cal-Am recognized its appeal. As a company dedicated to providing retirees with engaging and fulfilling lifestyles, they saw that pickleball was more than just a fun activity—it was an opportunity to build community, encourage healthy living, and create an energetic environment for residents.
Understanding the rising demand, Cal-Am began developing pickleball courts at its properties across the country, integrating them as a key component of their amenity offerings. Unlike other communities that viewed pickleball as just another recreational option, Cal-Am actively created space for pickleball courts and recruited residents to play. There are now 103 pickleball courts spread throughout Cal- Am properties in Arizona.
More Than a Sport: A Lifestyle Movement
For many 55+ adults , staying active and socially connected is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Pickleball has proven to be the perfect vehicle for both. By promoting the sport within its communities, Cal-Am saw immediate benefits:
- Social Connection: Pickleball provided a built-in way for residents to meet new friends, fostering a stronger sense of belonging.
- Physical Fitness: The sport offers a low-impact, high-reward exercise that keeps participants moving without excessive strain on joints.
- Mental Stimulation: Strategy and coordination keep players engaged, offering cognitive benefits that support long-term mental health.
Cal-Am didn’t just build courts and call it a day; they invested in programs and events that encouraged participation at all skill levels. Beginners could take lessons, while more advanced players had access to leagues and tournaments. The result? A thriving, multi-generational atmosphere where everyone felt included.
Tournaments & Events: Building a Pickleball Culture
To further cement pickleball as a key part of its community experience, specific Cal-Am communities introduced annual tournaments, leagues, and social events centered around the sport. These events became major highlights, attracting residents and even players from surrounding areas. The buzz around pickleball helped increase property interest and even contributed to higher resident satisfaction and retention rates.
A Nationwide Impact
Cal-Am’s early embrace of pickleball has influenced more than just its own communities—it has set a precedent for other developers and retirement communities across the country. Seeing the success of Cal-Am’s approach, more 55+ communities have followed suit, prioritizing pickleball courts and programming in their developments.
What’s Next? Expanding Pickleball’s Reach
Looking ahead, Cal-Am shows no signs of slowing its investment in pickleball. The company continues to expand its facilities, enhance offerings, and continue partnerships—like the one with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), further solidifying its role as a leader in active retirement living.
By embracing pickleball early, Cal-Am has not only re-energized retiree communities but also helped shape the future of active aging. As more older adults discover the joys of the sport, Cal-Am remains at the forefront, proving that staying active and socially engaged is the key to a fulfilling retirement.