Blueberries have long been celebrated for their nutritional benefits and delicious flavor, and now they’re stepping into the spotlight as the official fruit of Major League Pickleball (MLP). As this vibrant fruit takes center stage in the world of competitive pickleball, it’s worth exploring the reasons behind this exciting announcement and the potential impact it may have on the sport and its enthusiasts.
Pickleball, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is played on a smaller court with a paddle and a plastic ball. Its popularity has recently skyrocketed due to its accessibility, social nature, health benefits, affordability, and adaptability. With one in five adult Americans (approximately 48 million people) having played or tried pickleball, the sport is growing each year at an impressive rate of 64%.
Recently, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) announced their partnership with MLP, making blueberries the first-ever produce commodity to partner with the league. This collaboration aims to reach the expanding base of pickleball fans.
Blueberries are beloved for their delicious taste, nutritional value, and convenience, making them the perfect partner for a sport that inspires excitement and passion in its players and fans. They are an ideal grab-and-go snack, requiring no peeling, pitting, or chopping – just rinse and enjoy. Packed with beneficial vitamins like vitamin K and manganese, blueberries offer an instant boost of flavor and nutrition.
The low-calorie and nutrient-dense nature of blueberries makes them an excellent choice for players aiming to maintain a healthy diet and optimize their performance on the court. One cup of blueberries contains just 80 calories, is a good source of fiber, and provides essential nutrients. For everyday athletes, pickleball fanatics, and professional MLP players, blueberries are a valuable source of manganese and vitamin C, which can help provide the energy needed for play and potentially improve recovery time.
The partnership between USHBC and MLP is a perfect match for promoting the health benefits of blueberries and encouraging the pickleball community to incorporate more blueberries into their diets to support active lifestyles.