Pickleball Takes Over Hester Field: Boynton Beach’s Newest Sports Obsession

If you walk past Ezell Hester Jr. Community Center in Boynton Beach on a weekday morning, you’ll hear a steady rhythm—pock, pock, pock. It’s not tennis, and it’s not ping-pong. It’s pickleball, the sport that’s bringing people together like never before.

The energy on the courts is contagious. Some players are deep in competition, lunging and swinging with laser focus. Others are just here for fun, laughing at missed shots and high-fiving after good ones. There’s a mix of ages, skill levels, and backgrounds, but one thing is clear: everyone is having a blast.

More Than Just a Game

Three days a week, a group known as “The Hester Kids” takes over the community center’s courts. Despite the name, they’re not kids—most are retirees or working adults looking for a way to stay active and socialize.

J.R. Olivieri, who has been playing for nearly a decade, says the best part isn’t just the game itself—it’s the people.

For many, pickleball isn’t just about exercise—it’s about belonging. Players chat between matches, share tips, and even grab lunch together after a good round. The sport has become a social anchor, helping people stay connected and active.

Why Is Pickleball So Popular?

So, what’s the big deal? Why is everyone suddenly obsessed with pickleball?

The short answer: it’s fun, easy to learn, and great for all ages.

Unlike tennis, where you have to sprint across a huge court, pickleball is played on a smaller court with a lighter paddle and a slower-moving ball. That means less running, less strain on the body, and more fun. It’s also super social—because the court is smaller, players are constantly talking and laughing with each other.

Bob Musella, a longtime player and pickleball ambassador, says that’s what makes the sport special.

More Courts, More Players, More Fun

Pickleball’s popularity is skyrocketing, and Boynton Beach is making sure it keeps up. The city has added more courts, including six dedicated pickleball courts at the Boynton Beach Tennis & Pickleball Center and four indoor courts at the Ezell Hester Jr. Community Center.

And the demand is still growing. The Hester Kids are even raising money to build outdoor pickleball courts at the community center to accommodate the growing number of players.

It’s Not Just a Local Trend—It’s a Movement

What’s happening in Boynton Beach is happening all over the country. Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America, with new courts popping up every single day.

In Boca Raton, officials recently converted several tennis courts into pickleball courts because demand was so high. Erin Wright, who oversees local parks, says it was an easy decision.

Florida is now one of the top states for pickleball, and the sport isn’t just sticking around—it’s booming.

What’s Next for Pickleball in Boynton Beach?

The Hester Kids aren’t stopping anytime soon. They’re pushing for more courts, bigger tournaments, and an even stronger pickleball community.

The best part? Anyone can join. Whether you’re a seasoned player or have never picked up a paddle, there’s always room for one more.

So, if you’re curious, grab a paddle and head to Hester Field. You just might find yourself falling in love with the sport that’s taking over Boynton Beach.