On June 14th in Pickleball history, a significant event took place in 2019 when the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) announced the official inclusion of Pickleball as a medal sport in the National Senior Games, also known as the Senior Olympics. This milestone marked a major step forward for the growing sport and its recognition on a national level.

The National Senior Games, a multi-sport event for athletes aged 50 and older, added Pickleball to its lineup for the 2021 games held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The inclusion of Pickleball in this prestigious event highlighted the sport's increasing popularity among older adults and its potential for fostering healthy competition and camaraderie.

The announcement was met with great enthusiasm from the Pickleball community, as it provided an opportunity for senior players to showcase their skills on a larger stage and compete for medals alongside other distinguished athletes. The addition of Pickleball to the National Senior Games also helped to raise awareness about the sport and its benefits, such as improved physical fitness, mental well-being, and social interaction.

To prepare for the 2021 National Senior Games, many Pickleball enthusiasts began training rigorously and participating in qualifying events across the country. The anticipation and excitement surrounding this historic moment in Pickleball history continued to build as players eagerly awaited their chance to compete at the national level.

The inclusion of Pickleball in the National Senior Games on June 14th, 2019, marked a significant milestone for the sport and its growing community of players. It not only provided a platform for senior athletes to demonstrate their passion and skill but also helped to solidify Pickleball's position as a beloved and rapidly growing sport in the United States.