I try to stay in the know. I like to think that I keep up on what's happening in the world of parks and recreation. So when, during one of my recent marketing workshops, a recreation programmer mentioned a game called "Pickleball" I felt a little out-of-the loop. Rather than publicly admit (hey, I have my pride) that I had never heard of a game played with burger condiments -- I did the next best thing...
I jumped on-line the first chance I got to find out what the heck she was talking about. Since then I've thankfully learned that Pickleball is named after the inventor's cocker spaniel not the dill variety. I also learned that, according to Wikipedia, "Pickleball is a relatively new racquet sport which combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. The sport is played on a court with the same dimensions as a badminton court. The net is lower than most other racquet sports allowing for faster play. The game is played with a hard paddle and a wiffle ball, making the technique required for pickleball different than other sports."
But, as I've traveled the country over the past months, I've also asked many camp, park and recreation programmers if they are aware of Pickleball, especially since it's been around since the late 80's. While most had not heard of this game with the funny name, others told me that the sport is especially popular among seniors.
It made me realize that, as budgets are cut and travel expenses eliminated -- we have to work extra hard to stay up on what's new, what's hot, what's in and what's out. For those unable to afford the time or funds to attend conferences, workshops and meetings with other park and recreation professionals -- it will be necessary to work extra hard to stay informed.
As you look to innovate new programs -- especially for your growing baby boomer population I encourage you to explore not only Pickleball, but other emerging programs that may have been created, adapted or enhanced for aging athletes.
For those out-of-the Pickleball loop, here are some links to bring you up to speed -- especially in light of the fact that Pickleball already has its own Associations -- the USA Picklebal Association and World Pickleball Federation (move over USTA). There's even an International Pickleball week which occurs every June.
Share your experiences with Pickleball, as well as other unique programs by commenting below.
