ear Editor:
Whether you are new to pickleball or an experienced player, all will agree that after only one game you’re addicted.
Yes, it’s really that much fun!
Mostly pickleball is played as doubles using a net a little shorter than tennis, paddles a little larger than ping-pong, a plastic perforated ball and on a court about a quarter the size of a tennis court.
Pickleball gives you a good aerobic workout without as much stress and strain on joints and muscles compared to tennis. Given the choice between 30 minutes on the treadmill or 30 minutes on the courts, there is no question which option we would all choose.
You may be wondering if pickleball is okay for seniors? Yes, it can be played by all ages and abilities but definitely check with your doctor if you’re unsure.
Pickleball is a very social game and I think that is one of the things that really drives people to this game. It opens up a brand new community of friends. Players usually change positions and teams between games so you’re always meeting and playing with different people.
In addition, enjoyable social heckling, all in good fun, sure adds to the allure of pickleball. And you might not believe me “yet,” but playing pickleball improves brain function, too. For example, before serving, you must loudly call out your team’s score, then your opponent’s score, and then whether you are server #1 or #2. Sounds easy, right? Wrong. After playing for two months or two years, it’s easy for all four players on the court to forget one or all three of these items and multiple times during a game.
Another great thing about pickleball is it’s more of a finesse game, where “placing the ball” is more important than hitting the ball hard. Since physical power is not part of the game, mixed doubles is often played, and women and men can become very similar in calibre.
I first started playing pickleball a couple months ago in Fergus and then I found it in Clifford, Arthur, Elora, Elmira, and I’m really excited that pickleball will be bouncing into my home town of Drayton very soon.
I have noticed that pickleball courts are all a little different but the players are mostly the same. Pickleball players love the game and are very accommodating and always helpful to new players.
Everyone learns new things differently. I learned pickleball by first watching a few YouTube videos, then I played a few games and experienced players gave me pointers and then I read some rules and score counting.
Courts, nets, paddles, and balls are provided so all you need to play is running shoes, a water bottle, a few dollars, and don’t forget to stretch first. This is very important.
Check out your community’s website or phone them for game times, locations and how to register.
If you try pickleball, I guarantee you will love it. It’s easy to learn, I promise. See you on the courts.
Christine Stanley,
Drayton