Everyone Just Tickled About Pickleball
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By Kerry Phelps Dale
ow could anything called Pickleball not only be great fun, but serious and competitive, too? Don’t let the name fool you. This burgeoning sport has caught fire among all ages and levels of athletic ability. It is truly a game for everyone, with nary a pickle to be found. In the mid-1960s three friends from the state of Washington, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum, invented the sport that combines badminton, tennis and table tennis. Deb Atwood, a longtime Middleburg Tennis Club (MTC) member, recalled that as a staff member to Washington State Congressman Joel Pritchard in the 1980s, she was “required” to play the game--on the very first Pickleball court at a neighbor’s house on Bainbridge Island. Office retreats might include Pickleball as team building. “I can remember trying to beat the guy at his own game—bad idea—especially if beer and betting were involved,” Atwood added. According to the USA Pickleball Association, “Pickleball was a reference to the thrown-together leftover non-starters in the “pickle boat” of crew races.” After a few years the group thought naming the sport after the Pritchard family dog— actually named Pickle after the sport--made for a better story.
“The beauty is that you just need a net, some tape, and a paddle and you can play on any tennis court. The rules make it impossible to really get hurt by the plastic whiffle ball so everyone can play without worry about age or level. It’s fast paced but you don’t have far to run.” - Foxcroft Coach Jennifer Austell It’s played on a hard-surface court approximately half the size of a tennis court, with a paddle and a plastic “whiffle”-like ball. The inventors tweaked the rules and equipment until they came up with today’s Pickleball. Over 4.8 million people play Pickleball in 10,000 clubs and public facilities nationwide. It initially grew quickly among the over-65 crowd, but now attracts all ages. The social aspect of the game is attractive and it’s a good workout, too. Chestnut Forks in Warrenton has attempted to keep up with the enthusiasm and demand. They offer lessons and clinics and open play for all levels, competitive evenings and tournaments. Some days the four indoor tennis courts, two converted permanently and two temporarily, are bustling with 60 players. Tournaments have drawn
Foxcroft School definitely has room for a Pickleball team. in the hundreds. “It’s a sport for all ages and athleticism. It’s less demanding on your body than tennis,” said Chestnut Forks GM Derek Maloney. “And it’s so fun.” “It’s much easier to mix ability levels in Pickleball than tennis,” said Kevin Brundle, GM of the Middleburg Tennis Club. “It’s an easier sport to learn and become proficient in, too. It’s less intimidating than tennis. Having a drink during social Pickleball is okay. In tennis, running down lobs and moving all over the court--a drink would not be okay.” One outdoor tennis court has been converted into two permanent Pickleball courts with two additional tennis courts blended to four Pickleball courts with moveable nets. For less than $50, anyone can get the necessary starter package—paddle and balls. Use any court shoes you already have, grab a friend and head to any number of local courts. You won’t be alone.
Country ZEST & Style | Summer 2022
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