On October tenth, two thousand twenty one, something extraordinary happened in the world of pickleball. On that date, the Rossetti brothers, Angelo and Ettore, attempted something no one had ever done before—they went for the Guinness World Records title for the longest pickleball rally, according to USA Pickleball. This was not just about setting a record. It was about showing the world that pickleball is a sport for everyone, and about raising important funds and awareness for children in need, especially on World Mental Health Day, which is observed on October tenth. The brothers decided to make their attempt in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, and invited the public to watch via livestream on Facebook. Although the exact number of consecutive shots they made was not listed, the significance of the event was clear: this was a celebration of community, health, and generosity, all centered around a sport that is growing faster than almost any other in the United States.

The Rossetti brothers’ record attempt was officially supported by USA Pickleball. Their goal was to raise money for Save the Children, a charity that has been helping children for over a century. The event highlighted that pickleball is not just a game for older adults—something that is often assumed—but a sport for all ages, and one that can bring people together across generations and backgrounds. The brothers specifically wanted to show that pickleball could be a tool for positive change, especially for underprivileged children who might not otherwise have access to sports or recreational activities.

This event took place during a time when the world was still feeling the effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Mental health was and remains a critical issue, and the brothers chose World Mental Health Day for their rally on purpose, to underscore the importance of staying active, staying connected, and supporting one another. Their effort was a reminder of the power of sport to unite communities and offer hope, even in difficult times.

Pickleball itself has a unique and colorful history. The game was invented in nineteen sixty five by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum on Bainbridge Island, Washington. The three men were looking for a way to entertain their families and ended up creating a new game using table tennis paddles, a wiffle ball, and a badminton court with a lowered net. The rules were written to be simple enough for everyone to play, and the sport quickly became a family favorite. Over the years, pickleball spread from the Pacific Northwest to retirement communities in Arizona and Florida, and eventually across the entire country. The sport’s growth has been steady and impressive, with thousands of new players joining every year and large tournaments drawing participants from all over the world.

The Rossetti brothers’ attempt to break the longest rally record was a modern chapter in this ongoing story. It showed how pickleball continues to evolve and inspire. Events like this help to introduce new audiences to the sport and demonstrate its potential to make a difference beyond the court. The idea of setting a world record in pickleball is exciting not just for the players involved, but for everyone who loves the game and wants to see it grow.

While the outcome of the Rossetti brothers’ record attempt is not widely publicized, what matters most about October tenth in pickleball history is the spirit behind the event. It was a day when a simple game became a platform for charity, for mental health awareness, and for community building. It is a reminder that sports can be much more than competition—they can be a force for good in the world.

If you are interested in learning more about pickleball, its history, or its impact on communities, there are many resources available. And if you want to support great causes while having fun, consider following in the footsteps of the...