Pickleball is like a combination of ping pong, tennis and badminton. The paddles used are similar to an oversized version of those used in ping pong, while the court has the same stripes as a tennis court but is the size of a badminton court. Pickleball can be played both indoors and outdoors, and both tennis courts and badminton courts can easily be modified for the game. Players, called picklers, can range in age from children to senior adults.

“My kids could play it,” office secretary at North Dana Button, who enjoys playing pickleball in her free time, said. “It doesn’t cost a lot of money to get the equipment and it’s good exercise.”

Pickleball is quickly becoming an incredibly popular sport because of several reasons, one of which is that it is easy to get into. The only equipment required is a ball and a paddle, which is closer to the hand than in tennis, making it easier to get used to hitting. The court is smaller so players do not have to move as much and also get to socialize. The smaller courts also mean that more games can take place simultaneously.

In fact, the tennis courts close to Wapelhorst Park have been modified to allow for pickleball players, and this is where both McCoy and Button play. Button enjoys keeping up with her kids, and the consistent challenge of staying just as good as them.

“I really love how it’s one of those lifelong sports that [you can play] if you’re young or if you’re an older adult,” Button said. “I know a lot of older adults who still like to stay active and play it, so I think that’s really appealing.”

For those interested in learning to play pickleball, Button shares advice on how to get started.

“Start out by just playing for fun and learning the motion of it,” Button said. “And how hard you have to hit the ball, because it’s very different from tennis.”

McCoy also gives a tip to people interested in playing pickleball and getting even better at the sport.

“Just keep your feet moving, and be ready for the ball at all times,” McCoy said.