Free introduction to Pickleball being offered
Diane Erwin and Suzie Tupper were excited to take part in the first USAPA – sanctioned pickleball tournament at Kids America, which was held Jan. 12-13, 2019. (Josie Sellers)
Pickleball is becoming one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. On Sunday, Aug. 22, from 4-6 p.m. anyone interested in learning more about the sport is invited to Hall Park.
Cathie Akins, the USA Pickleball Ambassador for Coshocton County, said when she retired five years ago, she drove to Dover to play pickleball. She approached Kids America about having people play there and the sport took off in Coshocton County. “There are anywhere from six to 40 people playing every day. Small groups just get together and have fun.” Players are traveling from Zanesville, Mount Vernon and Millersburg to play.
She said pickleball is played with a paddle and a ball similar to a wiffle ball on a scaled down tennis court. “If you can play badminton, ping pong or tennis, you can pick up pickleball easily.” The city installed pickleball courts – three at Hall Park and three at Kids America. “We are so grateful for the city doing that.”
The introduction class is free and will include a demonstration of how to play, some basic rules and the opportunity to try it. Door prizes will be awarded and all equipment will be provided. “All they have to do is put on tennis shoes and come to have some fun,” Akins said.
