Haiden Lowery never expected a spring break game to spark a movement, but now, as the leader of Southern Miss’ Golden Eagle Pickleball Club, he’s building a growing campus community—one serve at a time.
When Lowery first picked up a pickleball paddle during spring break last year, he had no idea it would lead him to create one of the fastest-growing sports clubs at the University of Southern Mississippi. Under his leadership, the Golden Eagle Pickleball Club (GEPC) has grown from just 10 members to nearly 80 in a single semester, with weekly events attracting more than 25 participants.
“Haiden has a knack for bringing people together while having a humble heart,” said Ashlyn Le, GEPC vice president. “He is the definition of a servant leader, as he doesn't act as a tyrant, but instead, a heartwarming and kind person. He listens to everyone's input and works hard to make the club better for everyone. I truly wouldn't run GEPC with anyone else… Without him, we wouldn't have such a huge turnout at every event.”
Lowery’s commitment to creating an accessible and inclusive club has been key to its success. The rapid growth of GEPC speaks not only to the sport’s popularity but also to Lowery’s leadership and the welcoming culture he’s curated.
As a relatively new club, GEPC has faced financial hurdles. By organizing fundraising events and collaborating with other student organizations, Lowery secured sponsorships to support the club’s activities and to provide necessary equipment for members. His focus on accessibility ensured the club remained open to all students, regardless of their financial background.
Beyond his skills as an accounting major, Lowery is known for his approachability and ability to listen. He doesn’t lead by simply giving orders but by nurturing an environment where every member feels heard and appreciated.
“I don’t want anyone to work together and feel inferior to the other or like their work doesn’t matter. We all serve as motivation for each other,” said Lester. “Seeing such a wonderful community blossom out of this club has been an amazing experience and keeps us going.”
Le added that Lowery routinely checks in with executive members to see if they need assistance. Outside of GEPC, she said Lowery is a great friend and his dedication to others is “truly unmatched.”
The rapid rise of GEPC is fueled by both the national surge in pickleball’s popularity and Lowery’s steady leadership. The club runs an active social media presence and promotes social gatherings across campus, drawing in a diverse range of students. An upcoming event, “Dinkin’ for Gold,” in collaboration with the Southern Miss Wesley Foundation, is a strong example of Lowery’s drive to keep the club’s momentum going.
What began as a friendly game has evolved into a vibrant community for pickleball enthusiasts at Southern Miss. Lowery’s outspoken passion for the sport and his ability to lead with empathy have created a thriving organization that continues to grow. As the club looks ahead, his impact will continue to shape its future—ensuring GEPC remains a welcoming space for students for years to come.
