ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the development of a new sport and the work towards establishing a National Governing Body (NGB), by case studying the sport of Pickleball in Scotland. The popularity of Pickleball is closely linked to its accessibility: it is relatively easy for new players, young and old, to pick up the basics of the sport and quickly become competitive and successful at the sport. A key motivator for the founding members of Pickleball Scotland in establishing the NGB and seeking recognition of the sport from the sports councils was to protect the integrity of the sport. The role of volunteers in sports clubs has been widely discussed in academic literature and the significance of volunteering within sport is recognized by sports councils, which also promote volunteering opportunities. The Pickleball Scotland management board have demonstrated a combined top-down and bottom-up approach to develop this growing sport in Scotland.
