The beauty of the game is that everyone can learn how to play very quickly and the game can become addictive
Do you know what is one of the fastest growing sports in america? It is a game called “Pickleball.” There are over 100,000 people playing this sport right now with new converts joining in everyday. It is a perfect game to add to your club’s slate of activities. The game is great for all ages, from 9 years old to 90 years old. It is a low impact sport, thus easy on the joints for people who may have limited mobility. An added plus is that it is simple to learn and the whole family can start playing immediately.
The game is played on a rectangular hard surface court that measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, which is also the same size as a regulation badminton court. The top of the net is just 34 inches from the ground. A easy way to start is to just chalk off the lines within an existing tennis court and then use the tennis court net, which is 36 inches off the ground. You then play with either wood or composite racquets and a plastic ball that is very similar to a whiffle ball. The game is usually played with a doubles format and great for men, women and couples play. All supplies can be purchased by going to pickleball.com or uspa.org.
The beauty of the game is that everyone can learn how to play very quickly and the game can become addictive. Players start by just volleying the ball back and forth across the net. Within a short time they will be hitting the ball harder and faster. At that point it can develop into a quick, fast paced competitive game for experienced players. The game is a combination of tennis and ping-pong and provides for great exercise. Many people who have grown weary of other fitness regimes may enjoy picking up this new activity. The sport is sweeping the nation and is now being played in every state. The Villages near Orlando is a hotbed for the sport as they have 108 courts that are in use most hours of the day. The game is also part of the National Senior Games and also part of many state senior olympics.
I would suggest you make a small investment of paddles and balls and try the game at your club or area recreation center. The sport can be played inside or outside, although a strong wind can cause some interesting lob shots. It would be a great sport for your junior program or for your former tennis players, too. The best part of the game is that it can create new friendships among the players as well as another way to promote your club.
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