Pickleball. It’s a sport that has been on the rise in popularity over the past few years. But what is it? Other than having a fun name that is rumored to have originated from the creators’ dog, Pickles, it’s also a sport that combines elements from tennis, badminton and ping-pong.
The game is played on badminton courts and is run similarly to tennis. The smaller sized courts make it slower-paced than tennis, and the balls – wiffle balls – keep the sport light impact. Players use paddles that resemble oversized table tennis rackets.
Taylor Morrison is the recreation services manager with the city of Yorkton. He said pickleball is a sport that’s certainly on the rise.
“It was invented back in the 1960’s. It was very popular with the Snowbirds going down into the States,” said Morrison. “As those Snowbirds came back to Canada, they brought pickleball with them. And it’s been growing.”
“Pickleball is a very low impact sport. It’s great for those who maybe can’t get around the tennis court as quickly,” said Morrison.
Pickleball is a sport that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. Morrison said that the target demographic is generally those over the age of 55.
The Gloria Hayden Community Centre in Yorkton offers weekly open-gyms, where the pickleball courts are set up and ready for action.
