Women Drive Rapid Growth in Minneapolis Pickleball
Pickleball participation in the Twin Cities has surged fivefold since 2020 as the sport achieves a near 50/50 gender balance.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Health and Wellness
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Pickleball popularity continues to climb throughout Minneapolis and the broader Twin Cities region. The sport has grown five times larger than it was in 2020, with gender participation rates now approaching an even split.
Why it matters
Participants are increasingly drawn to the sport as a primary source of physical activity and community building. This trend reflects a broader shift toward inclusive, social exercise options that cater to a wide demographic of players.
Pickleball popularity is now five times greater than it was in 2020. Local facilities report a balanced 50/50 gender split among active participants.
The players
Lucky Shots Pickleball
This facility is located in northeast Minneapolis and serves as a central hub for local league play and tournament events.
Mary Shuman
A 73-year-old local resident who participates in pickleball for four hours daily over five days each week.
The details
At the Lucky Shots Pickleball facility in northeast Minneapolis, dedicated leagues like Women's Wednesdays help manage high demand. Players of all ages are engaging with the sport, including individuals like 73-year-old Mary Shuman who plays for four hours across five days each week.
Timeline
Pickleball participation was one-fifth of its current size in 2020.
Lucky Shots hosts women's league play every Wednesday.
A Paddle of Their Own tournament is scheduled for March 2027.
Industry Dynamics
The surge in Minneapolis pickleball mirrors the nationwide rise of pickleball as the fastest-growing sport in the United States. This rapid expansion is forcing local facilities to adapt their scheduling to accommodate a significantly more diverse player base.
Players interested in joining the local scene should monitor league schedules at facilities like Lucky Shots to secure a spot. Registration for the upcoming March tournament allows competitors to engage directly with the growing local circuit.
The takeaway
Pickleball provides a sustainable, high-frequency exercise option that encourages long-term athletic engagement for residents of all ages. New players can build community and improve their fitness by joining recurring league nights.
What happens next
Lucky Shots Pickleball will host the A Paddle of Their Own women's tournament in March 2027.
Further reading
Explore more local trends in Minneapolis Health and Wellness.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CBS News.
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