Sports

The History of Pickleball, a New Sport in Milford

A chat w/USAPA Pickleball Ambassador Diane Sullivan about this unique sport, which will be demonstrated at the Parsons Complex Gymnasium on Tuesday, March 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 12 p.m.

 

How did Pickleball first get started?

Pickleball was invented in 1965 by then Congressman Joel Pritchard. After returning from playing golf with friends, he attempted to set up a badminton game, but could not find the shuttlecock.  The group improvised by lowering the net and using a whiffle ball. The name Pickleball comes from the rowing crew term “pickle boat” made up of rowers left over from the other boats.  There is a widely told story, and almost certainly false, that Pritchard’s dog Pickles would chase after the balls and the game was named after the dog.

You recently had a demonstration at Milford Senior Center. Is
this a sport that people of all ages can play?

Yes, any age can play Pickleball. It is the fastest growing sport in the country.  At the Milford Senior Center, I had a 94 year old resident come out and hit a few balls. It was amazing.  

As a certified tennis pro with a bad knee, I found the game easier on my joints due to the smaller court size, light weight paddle and ball. And not only are seniors playing Pickleball, but it is also being played in the Milford School System.

What has the response been so far from people in Milford to
Pickleball?

The response has been great. Yesterday, a Milford couple told me they are repaving their driveway and re-doing the specs to build a court there. There is a group playing at the Heritage Sound Condo complex and another group playing on Tuesday nights on a basketball court. Paul Piscatelli at the Milford Recreation Department has been wonderful and we are planning several introductions/demonstrations to the game.

How long do you think it takes for someone to get really good at
the sport?

The beauty of the game is it is easy to pick up. Unlike tennis, you can play the game the first time you try it. If you are a tennis, badminton or ping pong player you are at an advantage. But, I have taught many people that don’t play any racket sports and pick it up easier than almost any other sport. For more information on Pickleball, you can visit the website at www.usapa.org


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