Bob Cook-Abbott provided us a report from a recent ‘field trip’ some PAO representatives took:

On November 25, 2015 a group of PAO members from the Durham area joined the Grade 4/5 students to share an introduction to the game of pickleball. The kids (and volunteers!) all had a great time.

Teacher, Heather Tulipano said afterwards: “They (the class) were pretty hyped up, but that is what I wanted–excitement about pickleball! We went back to class and talked about what they had done, and they were all sharing stories, like hitting a ball that went straight up in the air, or swinging the paddle and missing, or starting to get a rally with their partner. This is such a great age for loving the little victories (or misses)!

Your presentation was well thought out, and had such a high level of involvement. Bringing the extra paddles and balls (not to mention the nets) was very much appreciated. The kids were active and had lots of touch time. I also appreciated the one-on-one attention you gave the kids, and I know they did too. We’re all eager to try more in gym class, and I’m hoping to start some sort of extra-curricular around it.”

A big thank you to Bill Gohn, (MC, Head Coach and “Honorary Principal for a day”), Roy Wilson, Joseline Sikorski, Joan Archer and Anne Robertson and Time Payne (from Orillia Pickleball Club) for joining me for a great day.