One of the fastest growing sports in the country has a new court in Bayfield: pickleball.
A court opened up in the new Bayfield Library Park last year. Equipment for pickleball can be checked out with a library card, and court times also can be reserved by calling the library at 884-2222.
Vivian Edwards, a tennis professional in Bayfield, began playing pickleball a few years ago and is now a fan, as well as a pickleball pro.
Pickleball is easier on knees than tennis, and the lighter paddle also is easier on wrists and elbows than tennis rackets.
The game is easy to learn, most games are doubles, and it’s a more social game than tennis because the court is smaller, Edwards said. Players usually touch paddles between sets.
Pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island near Seattle. Three dads whose kids were bored with their usual summertime activities are credited with creating the game.
Pickleball has evolved from original handmade equipment and simple rules into a popular sport throughout the U.S. and Canada. The game is growing internationally as well, with many European and Asian countries adding courts.
