‘Pickleball’ on the rise across Bellarine and Surf Coast

A NEW sport right here on the Surf Coast and the Bellarine is on the rise, combining elements of tennis, table tennis and badminton with new players becoming hooked.

Pickleball, a growing sport with more than five million Americans registered in the sport and Australian participation on a similar trajectory, is in our backyard with plenty of chances for locals to join the fun.

The sport is played on a badminton-sized court with a waist high net, a paddle, and a plastic ball.

It combines the best features of all three previously mentioned sports to produce what organisers are calling a fun, healthy, social sport that is easily learnt.

Historically, Pickleball was invented in the mid 60s in the USA, but the origin of the name is believed to either be named after the inventor’s dog “Pickles” or a rowing term referring to a boat being crewed by the leftover members of other crews.

Pickleball is suitable for all ages, and it is not uncommon to see people in their 70s and 80s playing.

Ocean Grove Pickleball was established in 2019 by Terry and Fran Kealey, after they experienced the game in America that year while attending their son’s wedding.

It has flourished ever since and now operates six days a week from Memorial Hall.

“Local clubs are developing at a rapid pace and are well supported by national and state associations,” Ms Kealey said.

“While the majority of play could be described as social, there is increasing competitive opportunities which include tournaments as well as state and Australian championships.

“Pickleball will also feature in the 2022 Pan Pacific Masters Games being held on the Gold Coast in November.”

Murray Ellis, a former committee member, started Torquay Pickleball at the Wurdi Baierr Stadium in 2021 where it now operates three days and two evenings a week and has increasing interest from Surf Coast locals.

The stadium provides a modern facility and offers a fantastic opportunity for Pickleball players.

Both Torquay and Ocean Grove conduct free introductory sessions and welcome new members.

Session times for Ocean Grove are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Mornings, Wednesday afternoons and Sunday evenings.

Contact [email protected] if you are interested in a free session or to find out session times at Torquay’s venue contact [email protected].

Session times for Torquay are Tuesday to Thursday afternoons and Tuesday and Sunday evenings.