Pickleball is gaining popularity in Kindersley

BY JOAN JANZEN
joanjanzen@yahoo.com

The sport of pickleball is gaining popularity in Kindersley! It’s a lively racket game suitable for all ages and abilities, and is played on a court similar to a tennis court, but with smaller boundaries. It can be played by teams of two or four players, using small paddles to volley a ball similar to a wiffleball, over the net. The sport is something of a mix between tennis, racquetball and ping pong.

In Kindersley, pickleball is under the umbrella of Pathway To Wellness. Joanne Kosolofski from Pathway To Wellness explained that it all began when a friend wanted to bring pickleball to town. “We’ve been having pickleball at Elizabeth School during the winter months, and during the summer at the courts beside McGowan Park. We applied for a grant through the town; now the town crew has been busy revamping the tennis courts located across from Elizabeth Middle School,” Joanne said.

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Town employees work on revamping the tennis courts.

The revamped courts next to Elizabeth School will have four courts, which will enable sixteen people to play. Theresa Knight, along with Joanne, are organizing this activity. “In October, we’ll probably move it back into the school,” Joanne said.

Pickleball is held Monday and Wednesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. “A kick-off to our new spot will be held on Aug. 10 at 6:00 p.m. People can just show up that evening or give us a heads up that they’re planning to come.”

“With a paid membership, you can go play at any time,” Joanne said. Memberships are available for $30.00.

“Every week I’ll send out an email about what’s happening and we’ll keep everyone posted with any changes that may come along,” Joanne said.