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
Comment Policy: All viewpoints are welcome, but comments should remain relevant. Personal attacks, profanity, and aggressive behavior are not allowed. No spam, advertising, or promoting of products/services. Please, only use your real name and limit the amount of links submitted in your comment.
You Might Also Like...
A Fundraiser for the Siskiyou Ice Rink: Thinking Long Term
Originally born in rainy western Washington State, I never experienced much snow or the fun things that come with it, like skiing and ice skating. Luckily I have had family […]
A Five-pack of Family Hikes
Bite-size or bigger family adventures can be found on a variety of hikes in the topographically diverse counties of upper Northern California. Butte, Glenn, Shasta, Siskiyou, and Tehama Counties offer […]
Easy Ways Families Can Celebrate Earth Day
We all know taking care of the Earth is important, but it’s easy to let the busyness of daily life push thoughts of being eco-friendly to the back burner. Being […]
Waiting for Winter Skiing, Snowboarding & Hockey, Oh My!
The entire population of California is crossing its fingers for a precipitation-filled winter season. If the wishes of millions come true, skiers, snowboarders, and budding hockey players in Northern California […]
