You may not have ever played the game, but, certainly, by now you have heard about pickleball. It is the fastest growing sport in the country and is played in all fifty states by people of all ages. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, and it can be played indoors or outdoors on a court about one-fourth the size of a tennis court. The equipment used is likened to an oversized ping-pong paddle and a large Wiffle ball.

Why Should I Play Pickleball?

There are many reasons why pickleball is so popular – it’s easy to learn, it’s low-impact, it can be played with two people or four, it’s fun and very social, and good for you. Pickleball used to be considered a sport for seniors because those who have knee, hip, shoulder, or other limitations are still able to play, but now schools are teaching the game to kids and middle schoolers in gym class and recess. And because you can get four pickleball courts in the space of a tennis court, you are closer to one another and able to chat to other players. Many pickleball players have credited the game with their friends, their health, and even with saving their lives.

What Do I Need to Play Pickleball?

The equipment for pickleball is affordable and readily available. The paddles and balls can be found at Walmart, Target, any sporting goods store, or Amazon. Of course, they come in all price ranges, but you can get two paddles and four balls at Walmart for $15.99.

So do you think this would this be a great chance for your older mom or dad to stay mobile, work on their strength and balance, and stay socially active too? Is it an activity both you and your grandkids might enjoy? Are you interested in quickly meeting new friends of all ages and finding connections while burning some calories? Well, yes, you might answer, but how do I start? Do they even play pickleball in southwest Ohio?

Where Can I Play Pickleball in Southwest Ohio?

There are hundreds of places to play pickleball in our area. And more pickleball courts are popping up all the time. An amazing and easy-to-use site to find both free and fee-based courts in any area is pickleheads.com. Most parks now have free pickleball courts, but here is a list of some parks in the larger city areas:

Dayton:

• Huber Community Park

• Helke Park

• Activity Center Park

• Vandalia Pickleball Courts

• Dominick Lofino Park

• Kennedy Park

• Schoolhouse Park

Columbus:

• Jeffrey Park

• Degenhart Park

• Bevelhymer Park (16 courts!)

• Center Green Park

• Beulah Park

• Blue Limestone Park

• Roger Reynolds Park

Richmond, IN:

• Clear Creek Park

Troy:

• Duke Park

Springfield:

• Snyder Park

• Global Impact STEM Academy

• Clark State College, Main Campus

If you find yourself having so much fun you want to play through the winter, most Y’s and rec centers (Kroc Center, Washington Township, Huber Heights, etc.) have indoor courts. Some require a membership to play and some a small fee.

There are many Facebook pickleball groups where you can find out about open play or tournament opportunities, but you can just grab a friend, head out to your local park, and give it a try!