Welcome to this week’s edition of the VIPB Newsletter. We are closing in on our first four weeks since launching Vancouver Island Pickleball, powered by Courtside Sports! Last week, we welcomed Courtside Sports as our Title Partner, and we are excited to start rolling out some fun activations in the near future!

We continue to update the website and have added to the Court Guide (thank you to those who have contributed information), Coaching Directory, and fixed some much less exciting technical issues.

Join our growing Facebook Group and Facebook Page to stay updated on pickleball news throughout the week. We’re also on Linkedin! Have a safe week and reach out to [email protected] with any questions, suggestions, photo submissions for social or inquiries!

Pickleball BC’s Dave Eaton to chair upcoming Nanaimo 55+ BC Games Pickleball Event

Pickleball BC Association (PBCA) announced, February 15, 2025 that Dave Eaton, PBCA Board Secretary will Chair the Pickleball Event at the upcoming Nanaimo 2025 55+ BC Games to be held on September 9 – 13, 2025.

“As Sport Chair of Pickleball, I will coordinate resources and work with the 55+ BC Games Society and our local Host Committee to organize what we hope will be the best ever 55+ BC Games Pickleball event,” said Dave Eaton, Secretary, PBCA in the release. “We expect up to 350 [pickleball] players to take part, out of a total of 3,000 participants in the Games across all 25 sports. Volunteer responsibilities and activities are a significant part of the Games, and Nanaimo, plus the mid-Island region, will bring up to 1,500 volunteers to the Games.”

“With Dave as the Event Chair, we anticipate the Games’ Pickleball Event will be a tremendous success and PBCA looks forward to participating in whatever way we can to help,” added David Snell, President, Pickleball BC Association.

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Community Spotlight: Tofino’s pickleball popularity on the rise

Pickleball in Vancouver Island’s District of Tofino has continued to grow. Last summer featured the opening of four dedicated outdoor courts, catering to a mix of experienced and new players of all ages. 

The West Coast community has added additional options for drop-in sessions, following a rise in popularity for the sport in the region, according to District of Tofino Recreation Programmer Kelsey Wallace.

“Until recently, we only offered morning sessions four times per week, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., which wasn’t ideal for people who work during the day,” said Wallace. “But now, we’ve added an evening drop-in at Wickaninnish Community School, and it’s been amazing to see a whole new group of players come out!”

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Saanich Peninsula Pickleball Association amalgamates under VRPA umbrella

Saanich Peninsula Pickleball Association (SPPA) has amalgamated under the Victoria Regional Pickleball Association (VRPA) umbrella, following unanimous approval of the Special Resolution at the VRPA Annual General Meeting on February 19, 2025. 

VRPA vice president, Tessa Graham, spoke to the resolution at the meeting, as well as SPPA vice president, Andy Magee. Both speakers outlined the positive aspects of a unified body of players on the Lower Island, translating to a larger overall voice for pickleball on Vancouver Island. Additionally, benefits of the amalgamation were presented:

– Clearly defined political weight;
– Access to clinics;
– Lessons that would be beneficial to SPPA members. 

The resolution required a 2/3 approval.

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• Canadian Pickleball Pro Catherine Parenteau Wants You To Get Moving (Elle Canada)

• Massive comeback helps Waters survive upset bid from Buckner in three games (pickleball.com)

• Major League Pickleball looks to add teams, reach profitability this year (cnbc.com)

About Vancouver Island Pickleball

Vancouver Island Pickleball is the destination for all things pickleball on the Island. Founded in 2024, VIPB is dedicated to empowering the sport’s dynamic community with resources, tips, and the latest news to help the sport flourish and reach new heights. Built for seasoned players and beginners alike, VIPB is here to elevate the Island pickleball experience.

Looking to get involved? If you’re a player, club, business, or organization with a passion for pickleball, reach out at [email protected].