Bringing Pickleball to Portugal—The Story of the Lisbon Pickleball Club
Derek and LeEllen Hale founded the Lisbon Pickleball Club to introduce and grow the sport in Portugal. They've created a vibrant, inclusive community poised to inspire similar movements across Europe.
By David Judson · February 1, 2024 · News
LeEllen & Derek Hale, founders of the Lisbon Pickleball Club | Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pickleballlisboa
In 2022, Derek Hale and LeEllen Hale embarked on a mission to introduce and expand the sport of Pickleball in Lisbon, Portugal. As avid players themselves, their move to Lisbon marked the beginning of a journey to not only spread the love for the game but to also build a thriving community around it. The Lisbon Pickleball Club (Clube Pickleball Lisboa - CPL) was born out of this passion, yet the path to its establishment was anything but straightforward.
Overcoming Initial Challenges
The concept of Pickleball was virtually unknown in Lisbon, with local clubs and municipalities unaware of how to even begin building or converting existing courts for the sport. The Hales went to great lengths, importing necessary equipment like nets, paddles, and balls from the United States, and took on the task of converting spaces themselves. They meticulously taped their own lines, transforming ordinary courts into Pickleball-ready arenas.
A morning of Pickleball at Bairro do Junqueiro- Associação de Moradores in Lisbon, Portugal | image source: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pickleballlisboa
Building a Community Through Engagement
Recognizing the power of social media in community building, Derek and LeEllen established an active Facebook page for the club, ensuring it was updated almost daily. Their commitment to timely and thoughtful communication extended to email interactions, making every effort to welcome new members personally and introduce them to the game.
Accessibility was a key factor in their strategy. The courts were conveniently located within reach of public transport and taxis, making it easy for anyone interested to join in. The club's approachability and the founders' dedication to inclusivity and teaching played a significant role in its gradual growth.
Lisbon Pickleball Club (CPL) members at the Lisboa Racket Club | image source: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pickleballlisboa
Expanding the Club's Offerings
The Lisbon Pickleball Club recently celebrated a milestone by hosting its first tournament, with plans to make these competitions a regular offering. Club outings to local tournaments have fostered a sense of unity, with members donning the club’s green t-shirt as a symbol of their collective identity.
Despite the club’s primary demographic being English-speaking expatriates, efforts are underway to introduce more locals to the sport. The club offers a variety of membership options, from daily play passes to annual memberships, catering to a broad spectrum of interests and commitment levels.
Social gatherings post-play sessions, such as lunches and drinks at nearby establishments, have become a staple of the club's culture, encouraging camaraderie off the court. Using the TeamReach app to organize daily plays demonstrates the club's commitment to structure and efficiency, ensuring that sessions are well-attended and members are engaged.
Certified Pickleball instructors for newcomers | Image source: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pickleballlisboa
Looking to the Future
With membership on the rise, the CPL has begun segmenting players by skill level and offering free lessons to beginners, showcasing a structured approach to inclusivity and skill development. The organization of the club's first general assembly is a step towards formalizing its operations, signaling a mature approach to community building and club management.
The success of the Lisbon Pickleball Club serves as a blueprint for the potential spread of Pickleball across Europe. By demonstrating the viability and popularity of the sport, Derek and LeEllen Hale have laid the groundwork for others to follow, potentially easing the path for similar initiatives in other communities.
For visitors to Lisbon, the club offers a unique and welcoming opportunity to engage with the local expat community, enjoy the sport, and experience the warmth and camaraderie that the Lisbon Pickleball Club is known for. The Hales' vision for CPL is not just about playing Pickleball; it's about creating a model of engagement, inclusivity, and community that transcends the sport itself.
