If you’ve driven past Westchester Park lately and seen a crowd of people in sneakers laughing, paddling, and yelling “good dink!”, you’ve likely witnessed the latest sports phenomenon taking over this Los Angeles neighborhood: pickleball. What started as a modest pilot program just a few years ago has grown into a thriving community of over 700 active players, with courts often packed morning and evening, six days a week. So, how did pickleball become the sport in Westchester, California? Let’s paddle through the story.
Grassroots Beginnings: The Birth of Westchester Pickleball
The local boom traces back to 2021 when two passionate players, Mike Koss and Tom Brewster, launched Westchester (LA) Pickleball. They combined grassroots organizing with smart outreach, using social media and community engagement to build awareness and convince city officials that this wasn’t just a trend—it was a movement. Their leadership created an inviting, family-like atmosphere that drew in everyone from teenagers to retirees. It wasn’t just about the game. It was about connection, fun, and movement—something sorely missed during the isolating days of the pandemic.What Makes Pickleball So Addictive?
A few key factors help explain the sport’s runaway popularity in Westchester, Los Angeles (and across Southern California): First, there’s the accessibility. Pickleball is easy to learn, low-impact, and doesn’t require elite athleticism. It’s welcoming to all ages and abilities, making it one of the few sports where three generations can share the court. Second, the affordability of the sport. Local games cost as little as $7 per day, with loaner paddles and beginner clinics available regularly. You don’t need a membership or fancy gear to get started. Finally, you have the social energy. From holiday costume tournaments to post-game hangouts, the social culture around Westchester Pickleball has created friendships that extend well beyond the baseline. It’s a sport that’s as much about fun as fitness.From Tape Lines to Full Courts: The Infrastructure Boom
In the early days, players improvised. They would tape lines onto existing tennis courts just to get a match going. But as interest surged, the City of Los Angeles took notice. At Westchester Park (near Lincoln and Manchester), two tennis courts were transformed into eight dedicated pickleball courts. That single update made a huge difference in court availability. Meanwhile, the Westchester Recreation Center, a key hub for youth sports and community events, dramatically expanded its pickleball programming. Multiple daily sessions were added. And it’s not just Westchester. Nearby neighborhoods like Playa Vista, El Segundo, and Culver City are seeing a rise in court conversions and new league formations. Cross Court Pickleball in Hawthorne offers indoor play for rainy days or blazing summer heat.COVID’s Unexpected Influence
Like many pandemic-era trends, pickleball’s growth got a shot in the arm during lockdowns. As gyms closed and people sought safe, socially distanced ways to exercise, outdoor sports like pickleball became ideal. Easy to learn, safe to play, and naturally spaced out—it checked all the boxes. For many Westchester residents, it became more than just a game—it became therapy, community, and daily cardio rolled into one.The Challenges Ahead: Popularity Has Its Price
Westchester’s pickleball community is still growing, but not without growing pains. Limited real estate and high demand have made it hard to keep up, with some players waiting for court time even on weekday mornings. Seasonal weather also limits play during rain or high heat, creating further bottlenecks. Still, momentum is on pickleball’s side. More courts are in the pipeline, new leagues are forming, and a wave of new players keeps discovering the game. The local community is doing what it does best: showing up, paddling hard, and welcoming newcomers with open arms.Where to Play Pickleball in Westchester, CA
Looking to join a game or check out the scene for yourself? Here are a few popular pickleball spots in and around Westchester (Los Angeles 90045):📍 Westchester Park Pickleball Courts
7000 W Manchester Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90045- 8 dedicated outdoor courts
- Drop-in hours daily, low-cost play
- Beginner-friendly with regular clinics
📍 Westchester Recreation Center
9100 S. Lincoln Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045- Indoor and outdoor play
- City-run programs with structured sessions
- Great for families and youth clinics
📍 Ashwood Park
201 S Ash Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301- 8 minutes west of Westchester
- Dogs allowed