Published: July 8, 2025
Pickleball is more than just a trend—it’s a movement. From community centers and gyms to schoolyards and backyards, people across the country are discovering just how fun, approachable, and community-oriented this sport really is. And nowhere is that more evident than right here at
Ellington Racquet Club, where pickleball is quickly becoming part of the town’s culture.
On Friday, August 9 at 10:00 AM, we’re inviting families to experience the game in a new way by joining us for a Parent-Child Pickleball Doubles Tournament. Whether you’ve never played before or have been out on the court for years, this event is designed to bring parents and kids together through the spirit of teamwork, movement, and fun. It’s open to all skill levels, and we’ll be offering plenty of support to ensure everyone has a great experience—win or lose.
What Makes Pickleball the Ultimate Family Sport?
If you’re still wondering what all the hype is about, here’s a quick overview of
how to play pickleball and why it’s catching on so quickly.
Pickleball is played on a smaller court than tennis with a lightweight paddle and a plastic ball with holes—think of a hybrid between ping pong and badminton. The rules are easy to learn: serves must be underhand, the ball has to bounce on each side before players can volley, and points are only scored by the serving team. Games are typically played to 11, win by 2.
Because of the small court size and slower pace compared to tennis, pickleball is much more accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities. It’s fast enough to keep things exciting but not so intense that you feel overwhelmed. This is why families across the country are turning to pickleball as their go-to sport. It levels the playing field and allows for true intergenerational play. Parent and child can actually compete on equal footing—something that’s rare in the world of sports.
A Local Pickleball Place That Feels Like Home
Ellington Racquet Club is proud to be one of the growing number of facilities helping to make Connecticut a true pickleball place. We've hosted
clinics, open plays, and intro sessions—but this Parent-Child Tournament brings something a little extra to the court: connection.
We know that between busy schedules, school, work, and screens, quality time can be hard to come by. That’s why we’ve designed this event to be relaxed, welcoming, and full of opportunity for real interaction. Playing together on the same side of the net allows parents and children to encourage each other, problem-solve together, and—most importantly—have fun without pressure.
It’s not about winning. It’s about laughing through a missed shot, cheering each other on, and maybe even discovering a shared love for the game.
What to Expect on Tournament Day
The tournament will kick off at 10:00 AM and follow a round-robin format, so all teams will get multiple chances to play regardless of skill level. Each match will be short and friendly, giving you time to rotate through different matchups and meet other families throughout the morning. We’ll provide paddles and balls for those who don’t have their own equipment, and our staff will be there to help with rules and court guidance for newcomers.
You can expect a positive, supportive atmosphere with music, refreshments, and prizes for standout performances—not just for wins, but also for spirit and teamwork. And for those who are new to the sport, we’ll have brief introductions to the rules and tips to help you feel confident stepping onto the court.
This is more than a tournament—it’s a celebration of what pickleball brings to our community: energy, togetherness, and growth.
Growing the Pickleball Community in Ellington
We’ve seen firsthand how the game of pickleball brings people together. That’s why we’ve made it a core focus of our programming here at Ellington Racquet Club. Hosting events like this is part of our broader mission to grow the sport and make
Ellington known as a true pickleball place in Connecticut.
If you’ve been looking for a low-pressure, family-friendly way to get involved in the sport, this tournament is it. You don’t need prior experience, special gear, or any deep competitive background—just a willingness to try something new and be present. Over the past year, we’ve helped countless newcomers become regular players simply by giving them the chance to show up and have fun.
Whether you’ve watched pickleball from the sidelines, played casually in the driveway, or never even held a paddle, this is your moment to jump in and do something different. You might be surprised how quickly you and your child fall in love with the game.
Register and Join the Fun
Signing up is easy. Just head over to
CourtReserve to register your spot, or give us a call at
860-962-9641. The tournament is open to any parent and child team—no skill level required. Spots are limited, and registration is filling quickly, so we recommend reserving early to guarantee your place.
Everything you need will be provided, and you’ll be welcomed into an environment where learning, laughing, and supporting each other is the main goal. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of the game, time well spent with your child, and maybe even a new weekend hobby.
Final Thoughts
Pickleball is more than a sport. It’s a platform for connection. A way for families to get active, try something new, and be part of a supportive and growing community. We hope this tournament serves as a kickoff for more family-focused pickleball events at Ellington Racquet Club and inspires parents and kids alike to keep coming back to the courts.
Join us August 9 at 10:00 AM for a morning of movement, laughter, and family fun. See you on the court!
