Pick up a paddle and try pickleball

You may not have heard of Pickleball, but it’s the fastest growing sport in America and it’s gaining ground in Scotland too. It’s great fun for all ages and is played on a badminton court, with a tennis-style net and solid paddles like over-sized table tennis bats and an air-flow ball. It’s also the only sport named after a family dog.

Pickleball is frequently played in a doubles format and the game’s rules make it quite a tactical game rather than a power only game. It’s one of those games where age and guile are a match for youth and enthusiasm, and the smaller courts make it a great choice for anyone who finds tennis a bit of a strain. This summer’s Scottish Nationals and Masters Championships even include categories for over 50s and over 60s.

Mhairi Adam, Chair of Pickleball Scotland explained, ‘Pickleball Scotland offers two-hour introductory sessions. It’s easy to learn, huge fun and very sociable. People get addicted and start to improve  really quickly, so there are clubs and tournaments for those that are competitive. It’s also cheaper than many other racquet sports. Pickleball paddles start at around £50 and balls are around £3 each.’ 

Pickleball first came to Aberdeen eight years ago as part of the Golden Games event for older people. Grampian Pickleball Club was formed in 2021. There’s an evening session at Lochside Academy and adhoc daytime sessions at Sheddocksley Sports Centre. There are also groups at Aberdeen Sports Village, Inverurie’s Garioch Sports Centre, one in Fettercairn and it’s possible to book a court at Stonehaven Leisure Centre too.

Kippie Lodge also offers regular sessions. Kippie’s Nicky Caldwell commented, ‘Pickleball is our fastest-growing sport with many members joining classes throughout the week. It’s fun, easy to pick up and it’s a sport that all ages can play. Kippie also run pickleball social groups where members can meet up to have fun and stay active.’ Active Lifestyles has sessions at Get Active Jesmond and Kincorth.

Find out more at pickleballscotland.org or facebook.com/grampian.pickleball