A game that is fairly new to Australia, Pickleball is emerging as a low impact alternative for tennis and badminton players who are a little less mobile than they used to be.
It was established in the USA in 1965 by three fathers whose kids were bored with their summer break activities; they named it after one of their dogs, Pickle, who liked to chase balls.
Suitable for athletes with a disability, it’s also a game that can be enjoyed by any age, gender or ability.
Players use a paddle similar to a ping pong bat and a plastic whiffle ball on a smaller, badminton-sized court.
Basketball Centre General Manager Dawn Burke said she couldn’t recommend it highly enough as it was inter-generational, good for cardio and developing great hand, eye co-ordination.
“I’ve been playing it with my daughter and grandchildren and it is loads of fun,” she said.
“It’s particularly good for mental health in older people as it allows them to still enjoy a sport.
“Like most games, Pickleball is simple to learn but hard to master; it’s said to be the great equaliser in racquet sports because thinking is more important than power.“
Games only last about 10 to 12 minutes, meaning players have time for a chat between games but they don’t have to wait long to play.
At Auburn Basketball Centre, it’s on Wednesdays, 12.30-2.30pm and on Sundays, 9am-noon ($10 a person) and at Berala Carramarr, it’s also on Sundays, 1-4pm.
Call 9646 3840 or 0419 242 719 for further details.
Why Pickleball’s ideal sport to enjoy across generations at basketball or tennis centres
THE nation’s newest sporting craze – Pickleball – is already so popular at Auburn Basketball Centre, that extra opportunities to play are now on offer at Berala Carramar Hardcourt Tennis Association.