INSIDER’S GUIDE
Calling all Pickleheads!
If you don’t play pickleball, I’ll bet you know someone who does. Everyone and their brother has caught the “picklebug”.
The Origins of Pickleball
Pickleball traces its roots back to the mid-1960s when three enterprising dads on Bainbridge Island, Washington found themselves in search of a new game to entertain their families during a lazy summer afternoon. Utilizing ordinary items like ping-pong paddles and a wiffle ball, they improvised a makeshift court on their backyard badminton surface, and the rest is history.
Since rummaging through the shed for random equipment, some refinements have been made. The court is similar to a tennis court, but a little smaller, and the net is lower. Players wield solid paddles made of wood or composite materials and use a ball a distinctive plastic ball like a wiffle ball but (again) slightly smaller. It can be played indoors or outside, in singles matches or doubles.
The Game Play
The objective of the game is to score points by hitting the ball over the net in a way that the opponent cannot return it. Players serve diagonally into the opponent’s court. Pickleball moves quickly and requires precision and strategic thinking. It’s as much a mental game as it is physical, demanding split-second decision-making and lightning-fast reflexes. (Well, maybe not lightning fast, since many players are middle-aged+, and we’re slowing down a bit.)
The Appeal
What sets pickleball apart is its accessibility. Unlike sports that require significant physical skill or lots of practice, pickleball can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. Its compact court size makes it ideal for community centers, city parks, and backyard setups. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a novice seeking recreation, pickleball offers an inclusive environment for friendly competition and social interaction. Pickleball also fosters a sense of camaraderie. Players of different skill levels team up for singles games, and doubles matches, share tips, and cheer each other on. The sport’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere encourages newcomers to join in without fear of judgment. See, that whole “no judgement zone” thing really works!
The Growing Popularity
Part of pickleball’s allure lies in its adaptability. Players can easily modify the rules and court dimensions to accommodate different skill levels and playing environments. This flexibility has contributed to its integration into many different environments- phy ed classes, senior living communities, and park and rec programs.
Looking Ahead
The pickleball craze continues to gain momentum. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete seeking a new challenge or a casual enthusiast looking for fun and fitness, pickleball offers something for everyone. So grab a paddle, step onto the court, and experience the thrill of pickleball firsthand – you be glad you did!
Where to play pickleball in Brookfield:
The City of Brookfield Park & Rec Department offers several opportunities for pickleball players.
Dates, times and fees vary, and registration is required.
Access the City of Brookfield Summer Activity Guide here and turn to page 18 for Pickleball information.
https://www.ci.brookfield.wi.us/98/Seasonal-Activity-Guides
Pickleball Open Play- Mary Knoll Park tennis court
Mondays: 6/10-10/7, 9-11am
Wednesdays: 6/12-10/9, 9-11am
Thursdays: 6/13-10/10, 6-8pm
Fridays: 6/14-10/11, 9-11am
Pickleball for Beginners- Camelot Park, NE Entrance
Thursdays: June 6, 13, 20- 8-10am
Thursdays: July 11, 18, 25- 10:15am-12:15pm
Pickleball Drills & Skills Workouts- Camelot Park, NE Entrance
Thursdays: June 6, 13, 20- 10:15am-12:15pm
Thursdays: July 11, 18, 25- 8-10am
The Brookfield Tennis & Pickleball Club provides tennis and pickleball for adults in the community. The club plays pickleball at Mary Knoll Park Tuesdays at 5pm, and Saturdays at 9am. For more information, please visit their website www.brookfieldtennisclub.com
Other Places to Play:
Camelot Park, Mary Knoll Park and Wray Park offer courts, but you may have to BYO nets. Lifetime Fitness offers pickleball courts for its members.
Krueger Park- Construction on pickleball courts at Krueger Park should be finished this spring. The pickleball facility will include 8 courts, fencing, and a seating area with shade structures.
