WS Chronicle

By Judie Holcomb-Pack

Pickleball is the fastest growing recreation sport in America. A few years ago it was thought of as a sport for older adults, but now pickleball courts are popping up everywhere. It is still a popular sport with older adults and one of the competitive events in Senior Games, but the younger crowd is now getting in on the action. On a Saturday or Sunday afternoon you may see grandparents playing with their kids and grandkids. It is not only great exercise, but an amazing way to make new friends and socially connect with other people.

The YMCA is a great place to get started playing pickleball. The Fulton YMCA will be starting a beginner class on Feb. 14 taught by Dr. Danny Spence. The William White YMCA has ongoing classes on Monday mornings, and the Clemmons YMCA also has ongoing classes . Contact these locations for class times, details and to register. 

Since pickleball is played with partners and on a much smaller court than a tennis court, it is a sport that can be played by most folks. Most locations have practice paddles for beginners. There are different paddles available, so it’s recommended a beginner try several paddles before investing in purchasing their own. Dick’s Sporting Goods and Ski & Tennis Center have a good selection to choose from.

Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks have numerous pickleball courts around town and offer open play for anyone to join in. For more information, visit https://www.cityofws.org/3426/Pickleball.

For more information on the sport of pickleball and classes, contact Dr. Danny B. Spence, certified pickleball instructor, at 336-413-5567 or email dannyboy333@gmail.com.