In this edition of the "Prime" series, we look at the popular sport of Pickleball, which is enjoyed by local seniors. While the current COVID-19 situation means games are not taking place, but the article is still worth sharing, for the time when seniors can once again enjoy the game.
For those who don't know, Pickleball is a paddleball sport. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, where players use paddles to hit a polymer ball over a net.
Tom Cook is the Treasurer of the local pickleball Club. He was instrumental in bringing the activity here, explaining, "seven years ago I brought the game to North Bay. I played the game at the villages in Florida and thought that it would be excellent recreation for people in North Bay."
"We do not have league play but we have ladder play. 12 to 16 players meet once a week in a round-robin format. There are also regional tournaments and provincial tournaments that our members attend."
Cook says there are several benefits for seniors who take part.
"Obviously a little physical activity is good for everyone. The social aspect is one of the most important parts of pickleball. As I mentioned before you do not need to have a partner to play you just arrive at the gymnasium and take your turn on the court. When you’re not playing you’re sitting on the bench talking to many different people from many walks of life. The hand-eye coordination, the reflexes the full-body involvement all are good for seniors," he adds.
The sport is played in a variety of venues.
"We are able to play year-round at the Canadore Commerce Court gym and in the summertime we also play at the tennis courts beside the West Ferris arena. It's also played in Callander, Astorville, Sturgeon Falls, and Powasson," says Cook.
He says it's an activity that has grown by leaps and bounds, adding, "We started with about 8 to 10 players around seven years ago and have grown to an active group about 110. Over the past seven years, we have accumulated a data bank over 200 people who have enjoyed playing the game."
If you or a senior you know might be interested, the first step is simply reaching out to the group.
"In order to begin to play pickleball, one must get in touch with our membership chair at northbaypickleballclub@gmail.
