Page 16 - You Magazine 9

PAA Board Chair, Jen Ramamurthy, says that
with a perfect balance of
court dimensions, rules, and equipment, pickleball encourages an inclusive play environment with no need for modifications or adaptations to cater for gender, ability, or age differences.
But more important than its physical and mental challenges, Ramamurthy believes it’s pickleball’s off-court action that most are drawn to.
A sport for all ages and abilities
While no official numbers are kept on how many players are aged 65 or over, or living with
disability, Ramamurthy says there are several reasons why pickleball’s appeal is so broad.
The low technical level of
skills required, together with
the easy transference of skills from other racquetball sports means progress can be seen quite rapidly, she says. Other advantages include because the paddle is held close to the hand, hand/eye coordination required to get started is minimised. Similarly, because that the ball slows on the bounce it gives a player additional time to hit it. What’s more,
the game pace can be easily controlled by players to suit their skill level.
“The quick success achieved provides immediate confidence and belief that they can play
and won’t be embarrassed,” she says. “The social nature of the sport encourages healthy banter as you’re all in close proximity - something valued by all.”
Adaptive and para pickleball are more common in the US where game rules are amended slightly to accommodate anyone living with mobility or cognitive issues. For example, allowing players using wheelchairs to let the ball bounce twice before
it has to be returned. The wheelchair is considered part
of the athlete’s body during play.
16 2024 You