By GREGG WHITFIELD
A word from Gregg: Pickleball is growing fast because people who play have fun. When I first tried it, I thought, I can play, compete, and laugh. It is less taxing on the body, it is still a ton of fun, I am staying active, and I am playing a game with a wide array of people, which is what makes it so appealing. I graduated with a physical education degree and do not know of a better lifetime activity to get a person up and staying active, which is key to good overall health.
Some pickleball facts: An estimated 48.3 million people play pickleball in the United States, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) in 2023. Pickleball participation has grown an average of 223.5% over the last three years according to the SFIA, making it the fastest-growing sport in America for the past three years. Players ages 18 to 34 make up the largest percentage of pickleball players at 28.8% nationwide. There are currently 13,969 pickleball courts in the United States.
There are courts all over the County, and Cambria has six of the most beautiful courts anywhere. Come take a free introductory lesson, use a loaner paddle, and give it a try on Fridays at 9 a.m. (1350 Main Street behind the Cambria Center for the Arts). To sign up, call Rich Devega at: 805-574-0646.
