COMMUNITY NEWS

Pickleball: It's a big dill in local parks

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More than 30 participants learned how to play the sport of Pickleball during a course run by the Town of Hempstead on June 7 at Seaman Neck Park in Seaford.
More than 30 participants learned how to play the sport of Pickleball during a course run by the Town of Hempstead on June 7 at Seaman Neck Park in Seaford.
Photos by Rebecca Anderson/Herald

Pickleball, a cross between badminton and tennis, is the fastest growing sport among baby boomers in America. Created in the 1960s, and now popular in many retirement communities, the game is played on a badminton-sized court with paddles, a whiffle-type ball and a net — 34 inches high. This summer, the Town of Hempstead Department of Parks and Recreation is providing residents with opportunities to learn the team sport with a series of lessons being offered at Seaman’s Neck Park in Seaford.

“Pickleball can be played at most age and skill levels, making this an ideal athletic program to offer at our parks,” Town Supervisor Anthony Santino said. “The sport is particularly popular with our golden age residents, providing them with a fun outlet for fitness, competition and socialization.” 

Jones Wong, the district ambassador for the USA Pickleball Association, taught more than 30 participants various techniques of the game on June 7 at the courts.

“You basically have to get the ball over that net and make sure the opponents make a mistake,” said the instructor of three years. “For so many years, the courts laid unused, and this allows for people to finally enjoy them. Now, we can fit twice as many pickleball courts as there are tennis courts.”

Many of the participants, primarily from East Meadow, came from all sections of the Town of Hempstead to sharpen their pickleball skills and learn how to serve, volley and play with a partner.

“I’m here today learning the game,” said Debra Lindsay, of Lynbrook. “I had knee replacements, so as a result, I can’t play paddleball as well as I used to. Pickleball is a great alternative and it’s good for people of all ages and abilities.

“I love the competitiveness and the cardio aspect,” she added. “People think you wouldn’t get that much cardio playing doubles on a small court, but you are moving and using muscles that you probably haven’t used in a while.”

A special one-day course is being offered for “Pickleball 102: Workshop Beyond Basics,” with residents able to choose between 90-minute sessions on Monday, July 18 and Wednesday, July 20. The goals of the class is to help experienced pickleball players who are seeking to develop their drop shot, non-volley zone play and shot consistency and enhance their doubles-game strategy. Much of the time will be spent on skill drills and play analysis. The workshop is limited to 16 players per session. 

“I encourage residents to learn and try out the game of pickleball at one of our clinics at Seaman’s Neck Park,” Santino added. “You’ll be a part of what has turned into a popular pastime here in the Town of Hempstead.”

Pickleball classes are also offered at Speno Memorial Park in East Meadow, Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore, Baldwin Harbor Park and the Freeport Recreational Center.

“It’s an incredible game for people to socialize,” Wong said. “I’ve seen people walk on the court not knowing each other and walking off as best buds.”