As Pickleball Takes America by Storm, the YMCA to Unveil New Courts and Host Instructional Events

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pickleball
Images via the YMCA of Greater Brandywine.

Pickleball, a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and ping pong, is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S.

The YMCA of Greater Brandywine has certainly taken notice.

The nonprofit will unveil its new indoor pickleball courts at the West Chester Area YMCA on Monday, April 26 at 12 PM, during its “First Serve Pickleball Court Opening Ceremony.”  

Denise Day, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, and Laura Schofield-Pierson, Executive Director of the West Chester Area YMCA, will both offer remarks during the event, followed by a countdown to the first official serve.

YMCA members will then take to the courts to play with staff, providing demonstrations on how to play the sport. All are welcome to attend by RSVPing here. All COVID-19 safety precautions are being followed, and masks are required.

These are the first of many new pickleball courts — both indoor and outdoor — that the YMCA is installing in seven of its branches. Over the next few months, official outdoor pickleball courts will be installed at the Jennersville YMCA, Kennett Area YMCA, and Upper Main Line YMCA, while the outdoor courts at the Brandywine YMCA will be renovated. Additionally, at the Brandywine YMCA, Jennersville YMCA, Kennett Area YMCA, Lionville Community YMCA, and Oscar Lasko YMCA, the gymnasium floors are being resurfaced to create indoor pickleball courts with official court markings and color-coded kitchens.

With both indoor and outdoor courts, members will be able to play year-round. 

“More and more of our members have been playing pickleball in our gyms for a few years now,” said Day. “Given their interest, and the growing popularity, we wanted to invest in providing official pickleball courts and offering opportunities for more YGBW members to learn how to play. It’s a great way for people to stay active, have fun, and spend time with family and friends.”

Pickleball brings people together, as it is a multi-generational sport that can be played by all ages and abilities. It is quick to learn and affordable to play.

“While pickleball’s popularity is surging in the 55-and-older age group, it’s becoming just as popular with younger people and families,” said Michelle Smith, the YGBW’s pickleball coordinator, who is expanding the organization’s pickleball offerings with lessons, classes, leagues, clinics, and more. ”The best part of the sport is that it is something everyone can play and that families can enjoy together. I’m excited to help people fall in love with the sport.”

The YGBW currently offers open pickleball play at multiple branches for its members, and no equipment or prior experience is required. Paddles are available for use and a rotation system is used to ensure everyone is welcome to play. Learn more.

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