Pickleball got its start in 1965 when three Congressmen inadvertently created the game for their children who were bored. The game started with ping pong paddles, a whiffle ball and using a lowered net from their badminton court. The men wanted a game that was challenging, could be played by all ages, engages the whole family, and has some governing rules. Pickleball caught on in the neighborhood, spread across the state of Washington, and is now played around the world with over two million players in the US alone.
The Newport News Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Active Lifestyles Program, a program set to enrich the environment of the mature adult community through activities, has hosted four years of Pickleball in the Virginia Senior Games (2013-2016). This has helped build interest in the game throughout the City. Now, the Active Lifestyles Program offers indoor Pickleball play at three community centers, four days a week. There is no fee to play and equipment is provided on a first come/first served basis. Annual tournaments are held where competition is fierce and the play is worth watching.
Residents interested in learning how to play the game or looking for a place to play can visit one of three community centers at the times listed below:
Brittingham-Midtown Community Center:
Tuesdays & Fridays: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Denbigh Community Center:
Wednesdays 1:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.,
Thursdays 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Doris Miller Community Center:
Wednesdays 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Pickleball was officially recognized in 1972, setting the stage for more structure in rules and equipment. Players can join the
USA Pickleball Association, purchase paddles that suit their playing style, play indoors and out, participate in local and regional sanctioned tournaments, and compete in state and national Senior Games.