Pickleball Now Included in SMA Heat Policy Tool: A Win for Player Safety

We are excited to share a major step forward for player safety in Australian Pickleball — Pickleball is now officially included in the Sports Medicine Australia (SMA) Heat Policy Tool.

As the sport continues to grow, so does our responsibility to support safe, informed play across all conditions. The SMA Heat Policy Tool is a trusted, evidence-based resource that helps sports administrators, coaches, and players assess heat-related risk and modify activities accordingly. 

What is the SMA Heat Policy Tool?

The SMA Extreme Heat Policy was developed with the support of the University of Sydney Thermal Ergonomics Laboratory in the School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health. SMA would like to acknowledge Professor Ollie Jay, Associate Professor Carolyn Broderick and Dr James Smallcombe for their assistance in developing this resource.

In 2023, SMA and The University of Sydney launched an online tool to asses your susceptibility to heat risk when playing sport. Input your sport and location to get the risk assessment, and recommendations for managing these heat risks.

Why this matters

Heat-related illness can affect anyone, especially during warmer months when many courts are outdoors. By using the SMA Heat Policy Tool, clubs and  tournament organisers can make smarter decisions around scheduling, hydration, rest breaks, and more.

What is new

You can now select Pickleball directly from the dropdown menu at SMA’s Heat Policy Tool. This ensures that the guidance provided is specific to the demands of our sport.

What this means for you

• Club administrators: Use the tool when planning sessions or events in warm conditions.
  
  

• Tournament organisers: Incorporate it into your risk management and event planning.
  
  

• Players and coaches: Stay informed and advocate for safe play across all environments.
  
  

This update reflects Pickleball Australia’s ongoing commitment to player welfare and to aligning with best practice standards in Australian sport.