The new year often brings resolutions to lose weight, get fit and live a healthier lifestyle. In Marietta, one of the latest fitness crazes is the game of Pickleball. Invented in 1965, the sport has grown in popularity with courts popping up throughout the country and Marietta is no exception.
History of Pickleball
The game of Pickleball was invented on Bainbridge Island, just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington. Congressman Joel Pritchard, William Bell and Barney McCallum returned home from a game of golf to find their children bored and restless. The three men decided to create a game that would challenge the kids, but also be accessible. They gave each child a table tennis paddle and a Whiffle ball, then lowered the net on a badminton court. As they played the game, the rules evolved and the game was officially incorporated in 1972. Changes were made to the paddles to make them more suitable to the game, but that has been the only real change to the original rules.
Marietta Pickleball
Pickleball is offered at eight parks in the Marietta area. Indoor courts are located at Fullers Park Recreation Center, Ron Anderson Recreation Center and Ward Recreation Center. Outdoor courts are located at Kennworth Tennis Center, Lost Mountain Tennis Center, Shaw Park, Wild Horse Creek Park and Oregon Park. Although the sport requires a special paddle and ball, most facilities provide equipment. The game is appropriate for people of all ages and is very popular with tennis players who are no longer able to play the game due to limited movement. The court is smaller and well suited to senior citizens. The game is played on a court similar to a doubles badminton court and the rules establish a seven-foot “no volley zone” to prevent players from spiking the ball. The rules explain the serve, which requires the paddle to be held below the waste and the ball to be hit underhanded. There are volleys, double-bounce rules and faults also explained in the rules. A coin toss often determines the serving team.
Teams Available
Many recreation locations now offer Pickleball teams that provide socialization as well as exercise. There are teams available that play one day each week and those who play several times per week so that residents can choose the team that best fits their schedule. There are also open Pickleball times scheduled at the recreation centers that allow people to just come to the court and play. The sport provides participants with fitness, movement and camaraderie.
Waggoner Insurance promotes a healthy lifestyle for all residents of Marietta and sees Pickleball as a great way to get in shape while enjoying a social activity with others who also enjoy the game. Waggoner Insurance offers health, life, auto and home insurance that adds another layer of protection for you and your family. Contact us today to learn how we can meet all your insurance needs and protect your family should the worst happen.
Source:
Marietta Daily Journal