Pickleball anyone?

A few weeks ago, just after the nation-wide shutdown of almost all public facilities had reached or approached its peak, citizens began to speak out, some of them loudly and often, about the need for a quick return of sports.

Much of the noise was generated, of course, by those who wanted (and still want) the National Hockey League to complete its season and award a 2020 Stanley Cup – yes, even if the only acceptable playoff system finds room for an astonishing 20 teams.

Close behind in their enthusiasm were fans of the NBA, the NFL and Major League baseball. Many, notably supporters or horse racing, confirmed their major urge was betting: a simple chance to wager a dollar or two on the outcome of some physical competition worth notice, at least occasionally. Others in this part of North America spoke fondly of the exciting Toronto Raptors or hopefully that the Blue Jays were finally becoming competitive again.

Getting fans into the building was much less important than providing a spectacle of sorts on television. Those 40- to 50-inch screens provide all the insight many would require, and major-league teams would receive millions in sponsorship if only some way could be found to keep players from breathing on each other near the net, in the corners, under the hoop or at the plate.

Individuals who run or jump or throw in Olympic-style competition are also free to claim there is safe space around them as they practice.

Those noises are continuing, of course, but they have been dwarfed by a much larger group – golfers who maintain with commendable logic that their game takes place on healthy, green fields that cover dozens, perhaps hundreds, of acres.

The freedom to compete without rubbing shoulders was, or should have been, totally obvious, they insist. No need for two sitting side-by-side in carts. No need to continue the tradition of suddenly-dangerous handshakes after a good putt or pats on the head in consolation after a drive somehow finds nearby water.

To a lesser extent, the same could be said about tennis and badminton. The net provides a perpetual barrier.

And now, there’s another one: pickleball.

A friend mentioned this sport a few weeks back and a friend then recovering from knee surgery said she hoped to get back to playing as soon as possible. It first came into view a few years ago, when organizers of the Alberta 55-plus Games (now the Alberta Seniors Masters Games) volunteered to become part of the 55-plus event. A strong point was made that they should be trusted to conduct their own scheduling and playoff planning.

It’s safe to bet that pickleball is, or will be, in the works for future provincial senior competitions, if ever such multi-participant sports gatherings are permitted in this time of shrinking government investment in sports. Word is “It’s easy to play and helps get us into shape.”

My next exposure to this mysterious game came two years ago on the shores of Wasa Lake, near Kimberley. Operators of a tourist facility insisted the game was as much fun for spectators as for players. I did not have a chance to test that theory. Soon, I hope, another chance will come.

It’s worth noting that pickleball requires space about the size of a badminton court. Small rackets and balls are used. The net is standard size – whatever that means.

Most games, I’m told, end quickly and each point can be exciting. In this province, Eight zones have been established for competitive reasons. Registered members total more than 5,000. Leagues exist in major centres like Edmonton and Calgary, mid-sized communities like Lethbridge, Camrose and Red Deer, and smaller centres such as Rockyview and Rockyford.

When pickleball receives official clearance, I expect we’ll all learn quickly. Provincial executive members say it is the fastest growing sport in the province.

Pickleball, anyone.

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