Manasquan Recreation Seniors Pickleball Program Goes Inside Sept. 8

Tuesday is more than the first day of school in Manasquan. It’s also the starting date for the Manasquan Recreation Seniors Pickleball indoor program at its new home in the St. Denis gymnasium, 119 Virginia Ave.

“We will be playing Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Thursdays, 12 to 3:30 p.m. and Saturdays, also from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.,” said Carol Blume, who runs the Pickleball program. “We plan to have four courts. Learn to play or upgrade your game.”

The recreation department will provide paddles and balls. The ten-week program costs $50 per person. Register on the Manasquan Warrior Recreation site.

The group had played at the outdoor courts at Mallard Park on South Potter Avenue on Tuesday and Thursday mornings between 9:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. Manasquan recently approved a resolution authorizing the submission of a Monmouth County Municipal Open Space Grant for the installation of a new pickleball court in Mallard Park.

Pickleball is described as the fastest growing sport today, combining key elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, said Justin Maloof, executive director of the USA Pickleball Association. The court is only a fraction the size of a standard tennis court.

“Pickleball is a sport for all ages. It’s very low impact, which makes it a favorite for seniors. You only need three things to play: a net, paddle and ball,” Blume said.

The game, created back in 1965, is believed to named after the pickle boat, which is the name of the boat that comes in last with its catch. Other theories credit it to the inventor’s dog, Pickles, who chased the balls.

In addition to Manasquan, courts can be found in Beach Haven, Brant Beach, Sea Isle City, Tuckahoe in Upper Township, Ocean City, Brick, Toms River, among other locales .

Photo courtesy of Manasquan Recreation Seniors Pickleball