Pickleball on Florida’s Historic Coast
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Florida’s Historic Coast is all in on one of the fastest growing sports in America. Grab a paddle and head to the court.
Some describe it as a combination of tennis, badminton and ping pong. But those who play it just describe it as FUN! Pickleball is easy to learn and just as easy to start playing. It’s also easy on the body, although it’s great exercise for players of all ages. Like tennis, you can play singles or doubles. But unlike tennis, the smaller court puts you closer to your opponent so there’s less wear and tear on the knees and joints.
If you’re a newbie to the sport, you’ll probably already be familiar with the equipment. The racquets are similar to the hard ping pong racket. The ball is perforated like a wiffle ball, but smaller in size. And the court, sometimes played on tennis clay courts, is similar in size to a doubles badminton court. That’s about all you really need to know to jump in and start playing.
Now more than ever, as people are looking for ways to maintain their health and socialize more outdoors, pickleball provides a fast and friendly way to do that. Players can meet up at the courts located at Ron Parker Park in St. Augustine Beach.
Treaty Park in St. Augustine has eight pickleball courts you can reserve online. The Yards in Ponte Vedra Beach, offers 12 pickleball courts, complete with LED lighting to keep the party going after sundown. Veteran's Park, located in St. Johns, offers two lighted pickleball courts.
So, whether it’s for recreation or the friendly competition of tournaments, if you enjoy being outdoors, getting some exercise and the camaraderie of fellow players, pickleball might be just the sport for you.