Pickleball is growing fast in Scotland. u3a members across Edinburgh are picking up their paddles and getting to grips with this fun and sociable sport, which combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. 

Peter J. launched the first pickleball group in 2023. Since then, the sport has flourished, becoming the fastest growing in the Edinburgh u3a community. Demand has led to the creation of two additional groups - Pickleball 2 based in Craiglockhart (led by Chris V.) and a new beginners and post-beginners group, which is open to join. 

A resident of Edinburgh for ten years, Peter joined u3a eight years ago, encouraged by his wife Linda who was enjoying several groups. He stumbled upon pickleball, and joined social sessions at Meadowbank Leisure Centre. Realising there was no existing pickleball group within Edinburgh u3a, he took the initiative to start one. Interest quickly grew, attracting members who were keen to learn and play regularly.  

Peter credits the sport’s popularity with it being relatively easy to play, social, and fun. Some experience of racket sports is helpful, but he has found that, being u3a, members want to learn so many access coaching and watch YouTube videos to improve their skills and knowledge of the game. 

Setting up the group was straightforward. Peter worked closely with Group Coordinator Dave Duncan who helped him organise and publicise the group on the u3a website and in the Bulletin. He soon started getting emails from interested members.  

Now, pickleball has over sixty members. The newly established beginners group welcomes new participants and is looking for a Group Leader. Those interested will receive support from Dave, Peter and Chris to set up and run the group. 

With increasing participation and expanding groups, even more u3a members will have the chance to enjoy this fun and sociable sport.  

Page last updated on 17th June 2025