By Payton Tholstrup
Photos courtesy of Gloria Fowles
Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. Blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, the game is approachable for beginners and engaging for seasoned players.
Gloria Fowles, an avid pickleball player in Clay Center, explained that the court used in pickleball is smaller than a tennis court, and the net is a bit lower. The ball is hollow with holes in it, and it moves at the speed of a badminton birdie. The solid paddle is slightly larger than one used in ping-pong.
The game can be played in singles or doubles, and there are several variations of each.
A few years ago, Fowles created a Facebook group, Clay Center KS Pickleball. Since then, the sport has grown in popularity within the community.
“My goal was to get more people in Clay County to learn and enjoy the game, and to have enough people to play regularly,” said Fowles.
The group plays at the new courts at Dexter Park, weather permitting, and they are always looking for more players.
“There is a group that meets on Wednesday and Friday mornings, and another group that plays most Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings.”
Times vary, but more information can be found on playtimescheduler.com. Anyone interested in playing can sign up on the website. Game options in nearby towns, such as Manhattan or Abilene, can also be found there.
“Extra paddles and balls are always available, so anyone can just show up and play. We can also set up a net on the adjacent basketball court so we can have three games going at once,” Fowles said.
The games can be adjusted based on the number of players, so that everyone gets plenty of court time.
Fowles said, “I really enjoy the sport. It’s the only activity for exercise I have found that I look forward to doing. It’s fun to socialize as well as play, and I have enjoyed spending time with friends and meeting new people from the area.”
She added, “Although we are a competitive group, we also believe in having fun while playing. It has been great to see everyone improve their skills over the years.”
Fowles believes that the game has gotten so popular because it’s perfect for all ages. “What began primarily as a game for older adults has spread to families, kids, and teenagers. Kids find it simple to learn, teenagers and adults enjoy the fun and competition, and older adults find it less taxing on their bodies.”
Overall, the game is a great way to get more exercise, make new friends, and enjoy a shared activity with others in the community. Fowles said anyone is welcome to come watch the group play or join in.
“There are different opinions on how Pickleball got its peculiar name, but one thing is certain:
If you give it a try, you will find out it’s a lot of fun!”
