Tenley Smith is on the court at Chico Racquet Club for her first pickleball practice. Photo by Amber Thompson.
According to news sources across the nation, pickleball is America’s fastest- growing sport. Often described as a cross between badminton, tennis and ping pong, it’s an easy game for beginners to pick up and can quickly become a very competitive game for those with more experience.
Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. Three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum — whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities — are credited for creating game. Pickleball has evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport internationally as well, with many European and Asian countries adding courts.
What is pickleball?
- A fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong.
- Played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net.
- Played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes.
- Played as doubles or singles.
- Can be enjoyed by all ages and skill level
There’s a reason so many players get hooked on this sport – it’s easy to start, but hard to stop!
For lots of videos demonstrating the “shots” and strategies, go to USApickleball.com.
Posted in: Out & About
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