Starting in the spring semester of 2025, a group of students launched the Golden Eagle Pickleball Club, making it the first club of its kind on campus. After months of preparation, the club held its first official meeting on Feb. 7, inviting students from across the University of Southern Mississippi to participate in the fast-growing sport.
Pickleball, which has gained popularity in recent years, is an accessible sport that combines elements of tennis and table tennis. Played on a small court, it involves players rallying a ball back and forth to score points. The sport’s simplicity and low barrier to entry attracted a large number of students, many of whom attended the first two meetings to either play or try out the game for the first time.
"We want to create a community where people can get together and have fun," said Ngan Trat, the club's treasurer. "We’re very noncompetitive, making the sport fun for everyone at all levels, making it open for anyone who wants a community to hang out with. So, beyond pickleball, it's about finding friends and building community."
Although the club is in its early stages and many members are new to the game, organizers are not yet planning to participate in official tournaments or competitive events.
“At the beginning, we were thinking of a more competitive format for the club, but the more we thought about it, we realized we wanted to be more of a family and embody the culture of Southern Miss, so we can show more of the family side of the sport,” said Ashlyn Le, the club’s vice president.
The club's emphasis on inclusivity and community has resonated with students. More than 40 students attended the most recent meeting, with many expressing interest in becoming full-time members. As the club continues to grow, its leaders hope to expand their activities, potentially forming a competitive team and creating custom shirts.
The Golden Eagle Pickleball Club meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. All students are welcome to join, with the only requirement being a willingness to have fun.
