The rapidly growing popularity of pickleball in Spain is now spilling over from sports clubs to workspaces as employers start to take the sport on board as part of employee health and workplace engagement projects.
The latest example comes from UNICA Group, which has constructed a dedicated pickleball court at its Agribusiness Centre as part of its UNICA Bienestar project, a strategy to encourage healthy lifestyles and to increase employee wellbeing.
The move is indicative of a wider trend across Europe, with the game’s accessibility, social nature and ability to attract players of all ages and fitness levels helping it to gather momentum.
To support the launch, UNICA collaborated with the Andalusian Tennis Federation so that its employees could try one of the fastest growing racket sports in the world thanks to introductory sessions, coaching and practical demonstrations, says the report in aenverde.es.
The opening event saw corporate staff gather for a day of physical activity, teamwork and healthy entertainment, illustrating how pickleball is increasingly seen as more than just a competitive sport.
Those present included the President of the Andalusian Tennis Federation and Vice President of the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation, Alberto Rodríguez Cervantes, the Director of UNICA, Enrique de los Ríos, and the Deputy Director, Diego Calderón.
Coaches from the Federation introduced the sport to the staff who were part of the program, explaining the basic rules, methods and tactical ideas of pickleball and then letting the participants engage in on-court activities.
Rodríguez Cervantes lauded measures that facilitate the integration of athletics in the workplace.
He underlined the importance of developing opportunities that promote health, well-being and social contact among employees, while recognizing UNICA’s dedication to promoting positive values via sport.
The effort comes as pickleball continues to experience tremendous growth in Spain. As the sport has been making its way into new audiences at a steady pace, demand for accessible recreational activities has increased among municipalities, clubs, sports federations and educational institutions.
Pickleball is different from other traditional racquet sports since it can be learnt fast and needs only a little equipment, which makes it an attractive option for community programs and corporate health programs.
“UNICA remains committed to fostering a healthy and vibrant workplace culture, and activities like pickleball help strengthen internal relationships while encouraging active lifestyles,” stated UNICA Deputy Director Diego Calderón.
Pickleball’s impact continues to grow across Spain. The sport is increasingly getting into schools, community projects and now even corporate wellness programmes, proving how its appeal stretches well beyond typical sporting venues.