A group of pickleballers in British Columbia, Canada, is on the hunt to attract new members to its club and bring more attention to the sport.
Social Events Bring Members Together
The Merritt Pickleball Club’s courts were completed just two years ago, and Stephen Holbrook, a club director, called the courts the “best in B.C.”
Games are currently held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, with evening games taking place Tuesday and Thursday. The Merritt Herald reports that Holbrook is also looking to start up a Saturday morning game time, pending interest from the community.
Keys to the courts, located at the former Lawn Bowling Club on Merritt Avenue, are available to members in addition to the scheduled weekly play times.
Although the pickleball courts are constantly busy during opening times, and you may think this is the primary area of focus, the Merritt Pickleball Club also hosts a myriad of other social events.
“We have training days and barbecues, so there’s a lot of social things that we do,” noted Holbrook. “If you are looking for some new friends and a little bit of exercise, this is the club for it. You don’t have to have any competitive bone in your body, everyone is very friendly, and we’ll teach you the rules. It’s fairly easy.”
Fast-Paced Play for All Fitness Levels
“Anyone that plays tennis, badminton, or any type of racket sport, you’re going to love pickleball,” added Holbrook. “It’s not just for seniors, but it is a little easier because you don’t have to do as much running, but you still get a big sweat.”
A group of locals is rallying to bring attention to the sport of pickleball, with the Merritt Pickleball Club even having a permanent home on Merritt Avenue.https://t.co/gR4L6kqKIC
— The Merritt Herald (@MerrittHerald) August 17, 2023
Holbrook noted that the smaller court creates a more intimate and fast-paced environment for play and makes it much easier to rally. High-octane games are achievable by people with all levels of physical fitness.
Small Court Creates Intimate, Lively Games
The Merritt Pickleball Club invites locals of all ages, including families, to join in on the fun. “It’s very user-friendly; you don’t have to get lessons to go in and learn how to play,” said Holbrook. “If you want to get to an advanced level, some lessons are good, but you can get away with just having a good time with your family.”
Give Pickleball a Try for Laughs and Exercise
Holbrook added that anyone looking for some laughs, exercise, and to meet lots of good people of all ages should join in on the pickleball action.
Those looking to try out the sport can contact Holbrook at 778-709-0363 to set up a discovery game.
The courts are located at 2050 Merritt Avenue, Merritt, British Columbia V1K 1C8.
Alive And Well
Merritt Pickleball has a very active Facebook page which you can visit at facebook.com/groups/124917864855967. You can also find more information here.
The club has four pickleball-dedicated outdoor asphalt courts with permanent lines and nets.
Pickleball is alive and well in the state of British Columbia, with many clubs and plenty of events. If you wish to find out information about the sport in this region, you can visit this website.
Read more about pickleball in British Columbia in this other great article.
