This weekend, a new and trendy sport is taking over Sports Pavilion. It’s a launch event for Pickleball Lawrence, a non-profit focused on the growth of of the sport in the area. You might be thinking, “Sounds cool. But what the heck is Pickleball?”
The sport combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong. All you need is a couple of paddles, a ball, and a net to play singles or doubles, and the activity can be enjoyed by all ages.
On Saturday, June 25 from 9 to 11 A.M., high-end players will put on an exhibition on the outdoor courts to showcase how fun the game can be, while displaying the skills involved to be great at it. Open play will follow, along with a Q&A.
McGrew Realtor and organizer of the event, Brian Johnson, hopes the affair will demonstrate what the organizers are trying to accomplish, which is community involvement. Johnson started playing the sport in 2019 and instantly fell in love. “It gives me a good workout without being too tough on my body,” he says. “The age range of players is large, and any individual can pick the sport up quickly.”
Johnson is active in the recreational sports scene in Lawrence. In addition to sponsoring and playing for a kickball team in the Kaw Valley Kickball League, he plays softball two nights a week.
“I believe sports are an incredible way for people to connect from many different backgrounds. Sports help our youth (and adults for that matter) learn a wide range of character building skills — i.e. teamwork, discipline, honesty, integrity, a sense of belonging, and self evaluation. Also, fitness just happens, while having fun and playing,” he says.
The event will also feature music, the Uplift Coffee truck, and giveaways. McGrew Real Estate, Just Paddles, and Pickleball Lawrence are helping to sponsor the big day. It is free and open to all ages, so come join in on the Pickleball fun!
