By Sally Brock
Guest Writer
More than 40 players were at the pickleball courts Monday morning long before the fog lifted at the Clay County Sports Complex. The eight courts accommodated 32 players for doubles play as several players waited for their turn to rotate in for a game.
Pickleball is a fun, competitive and social sport that has been growing steadily in the county and the surrounding areas over the past several years. With the increased interest in the game Mountain Lakes pickleball has continued to offer clinics for beginning players over the past months.
Mountain Lakes pickleball will again host a free clinic for beginning players at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct 8 on the Clay County outdoor courts. The clinic will last approximately an hour and a half. It will be led by local USAPA Ambassadors Harry Jarrett and Mike Gonzalez who are both experienced instructors. No pre-registration is needed and loaner paddles will be available. All ages are welcome.
Pickleball has been the fastest growing sport across the United States for the past several years with almost five million people of all ages now enjoying the game. Local interest has also been keen as more and more people are trying the game.
Pickleball is a blend of tennis, badminton and ping-pong and is played on a court roughly one quarter the size of a tennis court. The game can be quickly learned with players often joining in their first game after basic lessons and review of game rules.
Mountain Lakes Pickleball players invite and welcome all interested individuals to attend the upcoming clinic.