Interview with Jean-Paul Bagot: The ‌Rise of Pinkleball in France and Beyond

Moderator: Welcome, everyone, to today’s special interview! We’re thrilled to have Jean-Paul Bagot, the secretary General of the pinkleball France Federation, joining​ us. Jean-Paul, thank you for taking the‍ time to speak with us today.

jean-Paul Bagot: Thank‍ you for having me. it’s a⁤ pleasure to be here and share the exciting story‌ of pinkleball.

Moderator: Let’s dive right in.Pinkleball has been gaining meaningful traction in recent years, both in France ‍and globally. Can you tell us a ⁤bit about the sport’s origins and what makes it so unique?

Jean-Paul Bagot: Absolutely. Pinkleball was invented in the 1960s in the United⁣ States as ⁣a hybrid sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, table tennis, and paddle. What makes⁣ it unique is its accessibility.It’s easy to ⁤pick up,yet it offers enough depth to⁣ keep players engaged. The sport is played ​on a smaller court, which makes it less physically demanding than tennis,⁤ but ‍it still requires strategy, precision, and ‌teamwork.

Moderator: That’s engaging. The article mentions that ⁣pinkleball has seen a surge in popularity, especially in France, were the number of players has ⁣grown from just 60 in 2014 to 700 licensed members and 3,000 ​regular participants in ‍2024. What do you attribute this growth to?

Jean-Paul Bagot: The growth has been phenomenal,​ and I believe it’s due to two key factors: accessibility and social connection. pinkleball is a sport that truly caters to everyone—irrespective of age or⁤ skill level. it’s not intimidating for beginners, yet it’s challenging ⁤enough for‍ seasoned athletes. Additionally, ‌the social aspect is huge. It’s a ‍sport that brings⁢ people together, whether it’s families, friends, or communities.

Moderator: Speaking of communities,⁢ you recently visited the Pictavian region and worked with⁢ Med ⁢Marah, president of the Badminton 60 and Over section.Can you tell us about that experience?

Jean-Paul Bagot: It was a wonderful experience. Med Marah had recently discovered⁣ pinkleball and was eager⁢ to introduce it to his​ group ‍of seniors. We ⁢held a training session on January 16, 2025, where I shared the history of the ⁣sport and its global growth.The seniors were‍ excited and quickly embraced the game. It was heartwarming to see how pinkleball brought joy and connection to their lives.

Moderator: That’s‌ unbelievable. The article also mentions that the 60 and Over Badminton Association has become the 26th group to join the French Pinkleball Federation. what does this mean for the sport’s future ⁣in France? ⁤

Jean-Paul‍ Bagot: ⁣ This ⁣is‌ a significant milestone.⁤ It shows that pinkleball is not just a passing trend but a sport with staying power. The inclusion of the 60 and Over Badminton Association highlights the​ sport’s appeal across generations. We’re also preparing for the national gathering in Draguignan, Var, from April 11-13, which will bring ‍together players from all over France. It’s ‌an⁢ exciting time for pinkleball.

Moderator: Let’s talk about the ⁤global outlook. While pinkleball is‍ booming in France, it’s already a massive phenomenon ⁣in the U.S., with millions of players. Do you see France catching up⁣ to ⁢that level of popularity?

Jean-Paul Bagot: It’s possible, but it will take time. The U.S. has a head start, and pinkleball is deeply ingrained in their sports culture. However, France is making great strides. Our focus is on grassroots growth—introducing‍ the sport to schools, communities, and clubs. If we⁢ continue on this path,​ I believe we can⁢ achieve similar levels of ‌popularity.

Moderator: That’s ⁤an enterprising goal, but it sounds like you’re on the right track. Now, let’s open the floor to ‌our readers.What are yoru thoughts on pinkleball? Have you tried it, or are you curious to give it a go? Share ‍your opinions in the comments below!

Jean-Paul Bagot: I’d love to hear from the readers. Whether you’re a seasoned player or someone who’s just discovering pinkleball, your feedback⁢ is invaluable. Let’s keep the conversation going!

Moderator: Thank you, Jean-Paul, for sharing your insights and passion for pinkleball.It’s clear that this sport ​has a radiant future, and we’re excited⁢ to see where it goes next.⁣ ​

Jean-Paul ‍Bagot: Thank you for having me. It’s been⁣ a pleasure discussing⁣ the sport I love.

Reader⁣ Interaction:

What do you think about pinkleball? Have you played it before, or are you inspired to try it after⁤ reading this interview? Let ‌us know ⁢your ‌thoughts in the comments! Do you think pinkleball⁤ has the potential to become as popular as tennis or badminton? Join the debate and share your perspective! ‌

Keywords: pinkleball, Jean-Paul Bagot, Pinkleball France Federation, med Marah, Badminton 60 and Over, pinkleball growth, pinkleball history, pinkleball popularity, Draguignan national gathering, hybrid sports, accessible sports,⁢ social sports.