Blog | The Club at Hammock Beach

Why Racquet Sports Are Thriving at Country Clubs

Written by Kelsi Whitehurst | June 26, 2025

Across the country, racquet sports are having a moment, and clubs are taking notice. Tennis and pickleball have grown from niche offerings into go-to activities for members of all ages. At Hammock Beach, we've seen the shift firsthand. Our courts are busier than ever, and the program has become one of the most active parts of club life.

This year, that momentum earned us national recognition. Hammock Beach was named a 2025 Gold Medal Tennis Resort and a 2025 Silver Medal Pickleball Resort by Tennis Resorts Online, and our Director of Racquets, Gene Paul Lascano, was awarded Region 4 Professional of the Year by Racquets Sports Professionals Association, Florida Division.

Here’s a closer look at why racquet sports are thriving, not just here but at clubs everywhere, and what makes the Hammock Beach experience so unique.

Leadership That Makes a Difference

We built our program around people, and that’s why it works. From the start, we’ve focused on making it welcoming, fun, and easy to join in, whether you’re picking up a racquet for the first time or returning after years away.

Our racquet sport team leads with that mindset every day, and it has made a big impact across all levels of play. The energy starts with leadership and carries through every clinic, lesson, and match.

Built for Every Age and Skill Level

One of the biggest reasons racquet sports are taking off at country clubs is how approachable they’ve become. You don’t need to be a lifelong player to know the rules inside and out.

Our lineup includes tennis and pickleball programs for all ages, with kids’ tennis clinics, adult beginner pickleball lessons, and social-style round robins. It’s fun, relaxing, and easy to get started. A lot of our members start with no background in racquet sports at all.

Fun Events That Bring Members Together

We pack the racquets calendar with more than just lessons and clinics; there are unique events, too. “Brunch at Wimbledon” is where members enjoy a day based on London’s finest tennis tradition, and “Dinks and Drinks” is a popular pickleball mixer that combines casual play with socializing. Events like these show how racquet sports bring energy and connection to club life.

A Community on the Court

It's more than just tennis and pickleball; it's the people you meet while you're out there. Our courts are where members hang out, stay active, and make dinner plans with neighbors.

You’ll find plenty of support and encouragement if you’re playing with friends for fun or trying your first lesson.

The racquet sports community is what keeps people coming back, and it's one of the things we’re most proud of.

Families Are Playing Together

More families are picking up racquets together. Not just kids in clinics or parents in leagues, but the whole crew is on the court. You'll see siblings rallying, parent-child doubles, or families hitting for fun.

The casual, all-ages approach is one reason that racquet sports fit so well into the Florida country club lifestyle, especially for families who want to stay active and connected.

Why So Many People Are Playing

Racquet sports are growing fast for a reason. They're great for your health, easy to pick up, and full of variety. According to the SFIA Topline Participation Report for 2025, there were an estimated 19.8 million pickleball players in the United States in 2024. That's a 45.8% increase from 2023, and we've felt that here at the Club.

At Hammock Beach, racquet sports aren't just about competition. They're about connection, progress, and enjoying the moment.

Come Play With Us

If you've been thinking about trying something new or just want a reason to get outside and move, racquet sports are a great place to start and are included in our membership program. We’ve created a welcoming, award-winning program that gives members of all ages a chance to play, grow, and be part of something special.

 

Subscribe to our Blog!