
Episode 1: The Rise of Pickleball in Europe - a sport taking over the continent
About This Episode
ABOUT THIS EPISODE //
Welcome aboard Pickleball Passport, the first-ever podcast dedicated to the European Pickleball community. Powered by RAQT.com – the go-to platform for Pickleball tournaments, leagues, and events across Europe – this podcast explores the rise of Pickleball across the continent!
The journey begins with a deep dive into how Pickleball is taking off across Europe – from grassroots movements to growing national federations, and from local pioneers to international ambitions.
This episode paints a picture of a sport in motion – one that is rapidly growing, but developing very differently in each country.
What you'll hear in Episode 1:
- How Pickleball began in countries like Turkey, Ireland, Sweden, and beyond
- Challenges players and organizers face locally
- Why growth differs from one nation to another – and the role of federations, clubs, and communities
- Guest interview: Fatih Dervent (European Pickleball Federation)
- Real stories and voices from top players across the continent
TIME STAMPS //
- (00:00) – Introduction, welcome & what to expect
- (02:51) – Europe: the big picture
- (05:33) – Differences to the US
- (08:05) – Challenges of Pickleball in Europe
- (29:14) – DUPR, rankings & competitive play
- (23:37) – National organization differences
- (48:10) – Interview with Fatih Dervent
- (01:00:00) – Wrap-Up & preview of Episode 2
PLAYER'S LOUNGE VOICES //
Thanks to these amazing contributors:
- Mustafa Enestebik – Turkey
- Pim Huberts – Netherlands
- Howard Castillo – Ireland
- Boris Paque – Belgium
- Jens Larsson – Sweden
- Marc Declercq – Spain
- Scott Mayo – Wales
- Karolina Owczarek – Poland
EPISODE SPONSOR SHOUTOUT //
Powered by Europe's first and only Pickleball magazine from the Dinking Hub.
ABOUT //
RAQT.com is your go-to for everything Pickleball in Europe – from tournaments to locations and leagues.
GET IN TOUCH //
Questions or feedback? Want to be featured or sponsor an episode? Email us at podcast@raqt.com.
