Are you getting bored of your normal everyday activities? Do you want to try something new with your friends and family? If so, the game for you is pickleball. 

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S., and many people are getting more interested in what the sport is. It is a sport that combines tennis, ping pong, and badminton. It’s played on a badminton size court, with a net that is slightly shorter than a tennis net, and you play with paddles and a whiffle ball. Pickleball is a fun game that anyone can get involved in; it doesn’t take long hours of practice, and people of all skill levels will be able to have a fun, competitive game. Pickleball is a fast paced game, but also a game of strategy, being a great combination of many sports. 

My dad, Warren Henderson, is the one who introduced me and my family to the sport. He first heard about it from some family friends, and ever since then he has enjoyed playing. Before the Covid-19 outbreak, he had the idea to set up a court in the warehouse of his company building for him and his employees to use.  

“Our employees work long hours under a lot of pressure. I wanted to provide a way for people to build camaraderie, and have a healthy distraction from work while relieving stress,” Warren said. “We had enough space to accommodate the court safely so it seemed like the perfect way to accomplish our goals.”   

When my dad presented this idea, all of the employees had positive responses to the thought of setting up a pickleball court, and many of them were excited to play. My dad would often come home from work with funny stories of what happened that day during their pickleball games. 

“It brings out the competitive spirit in people that you might not get to see in normal work environments,”  Construction Estimator Jon Jongekrijg said. “It is a fun sport that gets you some pretty good activity without a lot of expense.”

Playing pickleball also allows everyone to have some time away from their work. Even just 30 minutes of playing games gives people the break they need to rejuvenate themselves. 

“Pickleball clears your mind and allows you to disconnect from work for a short time,” OSP Engineering Supervisor Rob Fisher said. “It is a great activity that requires you to use both your mind and body.” 

At this time, there has been a pause put on the pickleball playing due to the restrictions of Covid-19, but my dad and his employees are all looking forward to playing again once it is safe to do so. Engaging in this sport has improved their work environment and has allowed them to stay active during their work days. 

“I am a big believer in the value of physical activity. Pickleball is great because everyone, no matter his or her athletic ability, can play and have fun. It’s a game that is played within a relatively small area and requires teamwork,” Warren said. “I would recommend this to everyone that is looking for a fun way to stay healthy, both mentally and physically. COVID restrictions have put a hold on our playing, but I know everyone is looking forward to getting back out on the court.” 

Pickleball is a great sport, and I, along with my family, recommend that you get involved in playing. It would provide you with some physical activity, and a friendly competitive atmosphere. If you are wanting to try something new, do some research and go play pickleball.