When Gosport resident Ian Kingsbury spends his winters in Florida, he often discovers new hobbies and ideas. But one discovery has transformed local sport in Gosport – and that’s pickleball.
“I first came across pickleball in the US, where it’s everywhere,” says Ian. “I quickly saw how accessible it was as it’s truly a game for all ages. It’s easy to learn, and brilliant for health and social wellbeing. I saw how quickly it was growing in the States, and I knew it would be the perfect sport for Gosport,” says Ian.
From Facebook group to a flourishing club
When Ian returned home in May 2020, later that year in September 2020, he set up Gosport Pickleball Club. “Despite lockdown restrictions, the club grew rapidly, with members meeting outdoors at Privett Park’s old tennis courts until indoor restrictions were lifted and the club returned to play at Gosport Leisure Centre”
Ian says the Privett Park courts were in a terrible state. “They were semi-derelict and barely usable,” he recalls.” But the spark had been lit. He reached out to Cllr Kirsten Bradley, now Gosport’s Mayor, who introduced him to Council Leader, Cllr Peter Chegwyn. Both could see the potential.
Ian put forward a proposal, and the result has been transformational. Gosport Borough Council invested £233,000 into rebuilding Privett Park’s courts, including £30,000 from the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation’s Park Tennis Project.
Today, the once-neglected courts are now a state-of-the-art sports facility, with new surfaces, nets, fencing, four tennis courts and, crucially, two dedicated pickleball courts. The site reopened on 23 July 2025 and has been busy ever since.
Why Pickleball?
What makes pickleball so popular? I ask Ian. “It’s easy to play and great fun!” he says enthusiastically. “The sport is a cross between badminton, tennis, and table tennis. But unlike tennis, it’s less physically demanding, which means grandparents can play with their grandchildren. It’s accessible for all ages and abilities, and fantastic for both physical and mental health.”
The numbers back this up. In the US, pickleball is exploding, with nearly 20 million Americans now playing regularly, and 48.3 million adults trying it at least once in the past year. In the UK, membership of Pickleball England has jumped 65% in the past year alone, with around 40,000 players already taking part. Earlier this summer, Pickleball England hosted the largest pickleball tournament outside of the United States at the Telford International Centre, Shropshire, with 2,400 players attending from 41 countries from across the globe.
Gosport’s unique place in UK Pickleball
While many towns struggle to find enough indoor courts, Gosport has taken the lead with the South Coast’s first free-to-use, dedicated outdoor pickleball courts.
“That’s what makes Gosport’s set-up so special,” says Ian. “Other towns are fighting for space in leisure centres and schools, as many sports are played in the sports halls, but here we have our courts that are specifically just for Pickleball. It’s something the whole community can be proud of.”
And the community spirit is strong. Pickleball in the Park is already running free weekly ‘have a go’ sessions, with paddles and balls provided for newcomers. “Since the first beginner session on July 30th over 70 players will have been introduced to pickleball and players of all ages are welcome, just bring comfortable trainers and enthusiasm,” Ian laughs.
A new “Drop-in Play” system is also launching soon, using the TeamReach app to connect players. “Automatic gates will allow easy access from 7am to 9pm, making it simple for anyone to join a game, make new friends, and get active. And the best bit? The courts are completely free to use.”
Pickleball is more than just a sport – it’s a movement. It’s about health, fun, friendship, and community. Thanks to Ian’s vision and the council’s investment, Gosport is now leading the way in the UK.
“It’s accessible, it’s social, and it’s here for everyone,” says Ian. “I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve built together in Gosport.”
Want to try pickleball?
Join Pickleball in the Park’s free weekly sessions at Privett Park. Equipment is provided. Follow ‘Pickleball in the Park’ on Facebook for updates.