Pickleball has arrived in Palmas del Mar! Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, ping pong and badminton. It has been played since its invention in 1965 by three friends in Washington state. It has now gained international attention and is one of the fastest growing sports around.
Pickleball came about in Palmas when Vic and Judy Kelly of Fairway Courts decided that they needed some more participants to increase the opportunity to play in Palmas. So, in mid-January Judy put out a message on the Palmas Community Forum–and no one came. Then, she put out another message the next week and six people came. And, since January, the Saturday gathering has attracted up to 30 people! The group meets every Saturday at 8:30 AM at the basketball court and tennis court at Villa Franca.
Vic and Judy have been playing Pickleball for several years and find it a great way to stay active as they grow older. However, Pickleball can be enjoyed by people of all ages. We have had players from as young as 15 and some well into their 80s. The amount of equipment required is minimal and the game can be learned well in two or three sessions.
Judy enlisted the assistance of Tony Maldonado, executive director of PHA, and Tony has jumped in with both feet. He has arranged to have the tennis court fence fixed and the tennis court resurfaced. PHA has also added Pickleball lines on both the tennis court and basketball court so that three games may go on at the same time.
The Palmas Pickleball Club Facebook page earned the interest of Carli Soto, Sr., Pickleball Ambassador for Puerto Rico, and Carli and members of his group from Caguas/Gurabo came to Palmas on February 29 and provided great instruction, competition and camaraderie. Carli is very passionate about Pickleball and it shows with his great patience.
Carli said, “It is my pleasure to come and meet with your group here in Palmas. We invite your group to visit us in Gurabo or Caguas. It is amazing how many people came out here today.” Jerry Cruz, PRPBA President, said “We are always trying to promote Pickleball and this group in Palmas has started very fast. We are excited for the opportunity to come and play and grow our sport.”
Gary McClain of Beach Village, who has been participating since the first week says, “What I like about Pickleball is that anyone can be good at it. You don’t have to be a man or a woman, or young or old. I like to compete and Pickleball is a great way to compete and have fun.”
Palmas Pickleball Club welcomes players of all skill and age levels. The group has extra paddles and balls. All you need to bring is some water and sunscreen–and a healthy attitude! For more info, you can contact Bill Daily at wdaily999@gmail.com or at 215-783-6074.