Pickleball doubles teammates strategising. Photo: Nikki Bailey.
The blustering wind and wet conditions did not dissuade keen locals from trying their hand at pickleball on Sunday.
Paddles in hand and game faces on, the participants were given instructions by Esperance Tennis Club coach, Bastien Henrotin, before having a hit.
The “come and try” event for Australia’s fastest growing sport attracted 12 people, including Weekender journalist Nikki Bailey, who can confirm it was great fun.
Pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court with large paddles and a lightweight plastic ball.
It is inclusive for all ages and abilities because of its simple rules and low impact on joints.
Coach Henrotin said it could also be played in all weather conditions, unlike tennis, which was often disrupted by consistent rain in Esperance.
“I’ve had a lot of issues with cancelling tennis — we usually get 16 people but if it’s rained out for two weeks… we have eight people [when they come back],” Coach Henrotin said.
“Pickleball can be played if the court is wet so we can keep momentum.”
Coach Henrotin said he was considering a regular pickleball pennant in term three, though nothing was set in stone yet.
He said if a competition went ahead, he would paint lines to have a proper pickleball court.
Coach Henrotin said he was keen to host a weekly competition for locals but despite the sport’s popularity, he said he remained devoted to his tennis.
“I will end up having to play [pickleball] but I am still addicted to my tennis so if I get a chance I would play tennis all the time,” he said.
