Perhaps a lesser-known sport, the University of Hartford’s Pickleball Club practices on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 3 o’clock on the well-worn but reliable courts by the soccer field. Like ping pong, pickleball involves a paddle and a ball but is played over a longer distance, like tennis. It’s a combination of the two with a few other components added in. Like tennis, pickleball gets you moving and running, your heart pumping and your blood flowing. With a number of ways and places to hit the ball, players must remain on their toes, lest a point be scored on them. Teamwork and communication are key but win or lose, it’s always going to be fun.
Who comes to pickleball club on the weekend varies week by week – even practice by practice – but it is a somewhat small group and tight-knit; everyone knows each other and has probably played at least once with everyone else, and the friendly environment is something you notice right away. Once you’re there, you fit right in. Tight-knit doesn’t mean impenetrable, however; though the club is already well-established, new members are always welcome and encouraged to join, no matter what level of skill.
So, if school is stressing you out and you feel like you need to hit something with something else, I recommend the Pickleball Club. It’s low commitment and very relaxed and laid back. If it’s not for you, you don’t have to go back. It’s as simple as that. Another reason to check it out is just to have something to do. I often find myself with little to do on the weekend and pickleball club gives me a reason to get outside and active. I like to get as much fresh air and Vitamin D as I can while the weather stays warm and pickleball club gives me the opportunity to do just that. If any of this sounds appealing, Pickleball Club is the way to go. I would also like to mention that the Pickleball Club will be selling grilled cheese and sodas this Thursday, November 14th from 7 to 10 p.m.
