We've all felt the impact. We've all fallen victim.
And now, it has a name.
The Boston Globe has declared it: Pickleball Derangement Syndrome.
Here's the gist if you don't want to read the whole thing:
The usual blah blah pickleball's growth: Pickleball has grown in popularity and has become the "fastest-growing" sport in the United States, with nearly five million people playing in 2021, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. Celebrity investors, etc.
The meat and potatoes: People who play pickleball are showing signs of Pickleball Derangement Syndrome, including joining multiple leagues, flying to pickleball camps, and even buying $145 designer pickleball dresses.
The three best parts:
“But I just do that once or twice a week,” Marino, 58, said. “It’s not all the time.”
No, no, of course not. She usually plays a mere three hours a day, unless she’s in a tournament, or she’s coaching a friend from her club, Life Time in Burlington, or...
Those who don’t grab a slot within seconds after the online sign-ups begin are unlikely to get a court at the time they want, said owner Brian Weller. “It’s like trying to get Taylor Swift tickets.”
“He has a whole new social life with retired ladies,” she said.
In summary, pickeball has a knack for becoming an obsession...and quickly. What other sports, hobbies or activities share this characteristic?
I don't know if I can name a single one.