Senior citizens are always playing pickleball at French Park located in San Luis Obispo, CA. Any SLOHS students showing up? Photo courtesy of slocity.org.
Pickleball continues to rise in popularity after being named the fastest-growing sport in the United States for many years. It has become one of the most popular hobbies for people of all ages because it usually requires less skill than other racket sports, less intense physical activity, and is easy to learn how to play.
Pickleball was invented in 1965 in the United States and was originally considered just a silly kids’ backyard game. Those ideas were quickly proven wrong after the first official pickleball tournament was held in the spring of 1976 at the South Center Athletic Club in Tukwila, Washington.
There are many important rules people need to follow to play pickleball fairly, such as serving underhand, letting the ball bounce once on each side at the start of a rally, and staying out of the kitchen zone when volleying.
“People began playing pickleball after COVID, as many wanted to leave the house. It’s a simple sport that doesn’t require much physical activity, making it inclusive for seniors or anyone looking for a relaxed game,” said sophomore Cole Vanclef. The sport’s growing popularity has mainly come from its ease as a way to stay active while socializing outside.
In San Luis Obispo, high school students can enjoy pickleball at venues like French Park, Avila Bay Athletic Club, and San Luis Obispo Country Club.
“I like to play pickleball at Avila Bay club because they have good courts and a good vibe, and I also sometimes play at French Park because it is easy to get to,” said senior Grant Vanclef.
French Park is an ideal choice for beginners in San Luis Obispo because it offers a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that will help beginners learn. French Park offers seven courts in total, so you are guaranteed to find a court to play on.
“I think that pickleball has become more popular because it is easier than other racket sports,” said junior Charlotte Petite.
It’s also more accessible to older people and less skilled individuals.
If you are looking for an easier, less competitive environment, pickleball is definitely the way to go! Its rise continues to make it one of the most popular hobbies in the world.
Source: forbes.com
