Pickleball is a popular racquet sport that is played in many different locations around the world, including Toronto, Ontario, and Naples, Florida. While the basic rules and most of the equipment (except pickleball balls) of the game are the same no matter where it is played, there may be some differences in how the game is played and how it is enjoyed in different locations. Here are some potential differences in pickleball between clubs and communities in Toronto and Naples:
Climate
One of the most significant differences between playing pickleball in Toronto and Naples is the climate. Toronto has a temperate climate, which means that the weather can be quite variable throughout the year, with hot summers and cold winters. Naples, on the other hand, has a tropical climate, which means that it is warm and humid year-round. This could affect how players approach the game and their comfort level on the court. This will also change the pickleball balls lifespan and bounce. Pickleball balls bounce less and fly faster in colder climates. The hot weather in Naples leads to busy courts in the morning and vacant courts in the afternoon. Toronto, on the other hand, barely has any indoor courts, so pickleball is almost seasonal as no one plays outside in the winter.
Court Availability
Another difference between playing pickleball in Toronto and Naples is the availability of courts. Having spent many months in Naples playing pickleball and growing up in Toronto. I feel like I can speak to this point well. Toronto is a large city with many parks and recreation areas. But, it’s disheartening to see how little Toronto has done to meet the pickleball demand the city has. Some of these parks have tennis courts (where you can play pickleball if you bring your own equipment), but none of these parks have dedicated pickleball courts. When it comes to indoor play - there is a lack of clubs and community centres to play. AND MOST OF THE COMMUNITY CENTRES ONLY LET YOU PLAY IF YOU ARE 60+..... Ridiculous. Naples, a popular destination for pickleball enthusiasts, has an unbelievable amount of club courts and community courts. With this surplus of courts, it may surprise you that between the hours of 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. even Naples residents have a hard time finding an open community court. Many residents are joining clubs to ensure they always can have a court when they want one.
Player Skill Level
The skill level of pickleball players in Toronto and Naples also differ. While both locations have players of all skill levels, Naples is a popular destination for retirees, pros, and older adults, many of whom are avid pickleball players. Naples, also known as the pickleball capital of the world, has many pros to train the plentiful pickleball population down there. There are also pros who train down there for the beautiful weather and access to premier clubs. Toronto, on the other hand, has a more diverse population, and players of all ages and skill levels are more evenly represented.
Tournament Scene
Finally, the tournament scene for pickleball is vastly different between Toronto and Naples. Naples is a popular destination for pickleball tournaments, and many major events are held there each year. Toronto has no tournament scene - leaving players to go to Oshawa, Waterloo, or London to play tournaments.
Overall, while the basic rules and equipment of pickleball are the same no matter where it is played, there may be some differences in how the game is played and how it is enjoyed in cities like Toronto and Naples. I can’t wait to see the pickleball landscape in these two cities in a few years. Toronto, I promise you, positive change is coming <3