It is a fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It is played both indoors and outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net and played with a paddle and a plastic ball. The United States American Pickleball Association (USAPA) estimates there are now over 100,000 players actively playing pickleball. Pickleball facilities are located in all 50 states. Many kids and teenagers play it in physical education classes in middle and high schools. Seniors enjoy the social aspects and the ability to stay active in their community. Tennis, racquetball and ping pong players love the competitive nature of the sport and regularly participate in competitive tournaments.
Brief History
Pickleball was invented in 1965 in Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, WA. Three dads-Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum-whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities were credited for creating the game. Pickleball evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout the US and Canada. The game is growing internationally as well as many European and Asian countries adding courts.
Over 50 ladies participated in the event led by Dee Davidson, a 5 rated Pickleball player from Buckeye, Arizona. Participants came from several states including Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa and Missouri. Participants learned proper pickleball techniques such as serves, overhead shots, backhand shots, return shots and court positioning. Pickleball is open to all ages. For more information, visit contact www.usapa.org or Pickleball Midwest at pickleballmidwest@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pickleballmidwest.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.