As many will know pickleball is not a marinated snack served with cheese and crackers. Rather it is a social court game which has become a popular form of exercise for seniors.
Described as a combination of tennis, badminton and table tennis or even as a big version of schoolyard patter tennis, pickleball has, in just a few years, become the ‘in’ sport for a growing number of people around the country.
Mostly played indoors, although it is also played out of doors, it is suitable for all ages yet gives a solid workout. Seniors, among others, have found it an ideal way to maintain fitness and also enjoy socialising to the extent that there are scores of clubs throughout both the North and South Islands.
Howick Grey Power member, John Webb, took up the sport three years ago when he returned to New Zealand from living in Australia.
“I heard about a club playing pickleball in Papakura and saw it as a good way to make new friends especially as Covid had kept us so isolated.
“I went along one evening but it was dark and wet and evening play didn’t suit me. However, someone told me about Pukekohe which played during the day.”
Now John travels to Pukekohe most Friday mornings for three hours of doubles play at the Franklin Pool and Leisure Centre.
“I enjoy the camaraderie as much as the exercise. At 84 I think I must be one of the oldest players but I like that there’s a good mix of ages and everyone is friendly.”
Midweek organiser at Pukekohe, Jeff Carr, says club sessions are Monday and Friday mornings and Saturday afternoons. The latter attracts more working people for whom weekdays are inconvenient.
“We have between 80 and 100 players across the three days, mostly adults but also some teens. At this stage we don’t really cater for younger children,” he explains.
Jeff became hooked on the sport three years ago after checking out his local Pukekohe club.
“I’d just survived several years of cancer treatment and was in poor physical shape. Within six to eight months of pickleball I was feeling terrific. It was a bit like playing patter tennis on steroids!”
At the outset, Jeff was warned the sport was addictive. “I played once and kept going back. Yes, it was totally addictive and although it attracts a lot of seniors, newcomers shouldn’t be deceived by looks.
“One of my first opponents was an elderly lady who looked extremely frail to me. I thought this will be easy. She beat me hands down!”
Jeff says the good thing about pickleball is that indoor play means fitness – and socialising – can be maintained year-round.
“However, next summer we have arranged to use the local netball courts for outdoor play, too.”
Pickleball courts are similar in size to a doubles’ badminton court with a tennis type net strung from side to side. The paddles are made of wood or composite material while the coloured pickle ball is similar to a plastic wiffle ball.
“With courts being smaller than those for tennis and the paddles also smaller and lighter than a tennis racket, pickleball is altogether an easier game to play,” Jeff adds. “The underarm serve helps in regards to strength.”
With a huge number of clubs listed online and even through FaceBook, Jeff encourages anyone interested to make contact with their local group.
“It’s definitely a sport for all ages with many advantages all within an amiable environment.”
