Tracey and Gary Hatfield of Perth admit that they’re more than a little partial to pickleball.
In a bid to get out and get active they joined the fastest growing sport in the world, now gaining ground in Tasmania, and have enjoyed participating in a Launceston roster and learning the rules and skills of the game, which is a bit like ping-pong, tennis and badminton, rolled into one.
Such is their love of the game, they’ve decided to initiate a competition in Longford to cater for Northern Midlands fans.
As a first step a come-and-try day was held on Tuesday at Health Revival, Longford, and the turnout was encouraging.
For two hours there was action, fun and plenty of laughter as the paddles sent balls flying in all directions.
By the end of the session it was obvious that some players were hooked.
Mrs Hatfield said that it doesn’t take long to master the techniques and settle into a rhythm.
“Pickleball was invented by a family in the US who were on holiday and wanted to play a game that all ages could participate in and enjoy – and they gave it a silly name never dreaming it would take off outside their family,” she said.
“The rules have been structured to make sure no one person gets an advantage by being bigger or stronger and it’s extremely safe because there’s no smashing the ball from close up to the net.
“It’s inclusiveness is what makes it a great community sport and by the looks of it there will be a lot more pickleball coming up in Longford.”
One of the benefits of pickleball is that once the basic equipment of nets, paddles and balls are purchased, there is little outlay required – mainly just the replacement of the plastic balls which crack over time.
Most communities have badminton courts somewhere, often underutilised, and other than the addition of one extra line they are ready to go.
Tuesday’s practise session was led by Level II coach and the first pickleball coach in Tasmania, Robbie Cooper from Port Huon.
For more information or to join the next practise day contact Tracey on 0414 606472.