On April 21st, 2023, the inaugural Pickleball Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place in Seattle, Washington, the birthplace of pickleball. The event celebrated the rich history and growth of the sport by honoring the first class of inductees, which included the three founders of pickleball: Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell.

The ceremony was attended by pickleball enthusiasts, players, and media from around the world. It featured speeches from the inductees' family members, as well as current pickleball champions who shared stories about how the inductees influenced the sport and their personal lives.

One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of a life-sized bronze statue depicting the three founders playing the first game of pickleball on Joel Pritchard's badminton court in 1965. The statue, created by renowned sculptor Michael Hamson, now stands proudly at the Pickleball Hall of Fame in Seattle, serving as a testament to the humble beginnings of this beloved sport.

The induction ceremony also included a charity auction, with proceeds going to the Pickleball Legacy Fund, which aims to support the growth and development of pickleball at the grassroots level. Items auctioned included vintage pickleball equipment, signed memorabilia from top players, and exclusive experiences such as private lessons with pickleball champions.

The Pickleball Hall of Fame induction ceremony on April 21st, 2023, not only paid tribute to the pioneers who created and nurtured the sport but also showcased the incredible growth and popularity that pickleball has achieved over the years. It was a momentous occasion that brought together the past, present, and future of pickleball, celebrating the sport's unique history and promising future.