High school pickleball gaining momentum in Utah

The Kitchen Team

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Last Edited

Jun 20 2025

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A recent article on Pickleball.com details the pickleball boom happening at the high school level right now in Utah.

The creation of the Utah High School Pickleball Association (UHSPA) less than a year ago has resulted in school clubs that train and compete against each other during a dedicated season, culminating in year-end team and individual championships.

The UHSPA was founded by pro coach and former pro player Jason Peery, who said he started the organization with the goal of promoting the sport in local high schools.

Jason, his wife, Lisa, and UHSPA Director Helen Monson comprise the board of UHSPA, which is a nonprofit and works to promote pickleball to youth throughout the state of Utah.

“Our goal is that with the UHSPA framework in place, school teams will have a legitimate place in high school sports, and that pickleball will become a sanctioned sport in Utah,” Peery said in the Pickleball.com article.

Utah currently has more than 30 high school pickleball clubs, which is more than any other state, according to DUPR. More than 20 of those schools participated in UHSPA’s inaugural season, which included six weeks of meets, team championships and individual championships for gender doubles, mixed doubles and singles. More than 300 students from beginning to advanced levels competed this season, with schools traveling up to 3 hours to participate.

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Monson said this is just the beginning for high school pickleball in Utah.

“We are so excited to see Jason’s initiative grow," she said. "Kids, parents and coaches are all excited to participate and are so positive and kind to each other on the court. We have been supported by so many indoor facilities and sponsors, and it’s just a joy to watch how enthusiastic everyone is.”

Several Utah pros supported the youth throughout the season, including Tyler Loong and Etta Tuionetoa, who made donations to help the winning schools continue to develop their pickleball club.

UHSPA plans to expand next season by forming a region in Southern Utah that will compete in St. George and Cedar City. They are also sponsoring interested individuals to become certified referees so that the competitions will be properly supported.

Visit www.uhspa.org to learn more about UHSPA, and follow them on Instagram @UtahPB.

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