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Pickleball Ontario Youth Initiative
Over the past few months, pickleball in the Waterloo Region has included a focus on youth. In conjunction with the Kitchener Downtown Community Centre, POWWR (Pickleball of Waterloo Wellington Region) and Pickleball Ontario, two elementary schools and three high schools participated in instructor led introductory pickleball experiences. In total 350 students from Suddaby Public School, King Edward Public School, Huron Heights Secondary School, Kitchener Waterloo Collegiate and Vocational School and Waterloo Collegiate Institute participated.
In total 350 students from grades 4 to 12 were exposed to the game to rave reviews. The participants learned game play and strategy, and some had the opportunity to play in a mini-tournament.
The intention of Pickleball Ontario is to foster the game of pickleball for all ages and abilities. These youth clinics will be offered again in 2020 to reach more students in the province.
Here are a few testimonials from recent participants at the youth clinics:
“I learned a lot at the clinic and I plan to play pickleball in the future.” Lauren
“The pickleball field trip was so much fun and a great experience. I didn’t realize the sport could be so competitive. I’m looking forward to playing again.” Evan
“I wasn’t very excited for the pickleball field trip but after learning the rules and playing for a while it got easier and was very fun. I won a shirt for doing a hard trick. It meant alot to me because in school I am never the one getting prizes. The shirt to me was the A+ I never achieve. The experience overall was a fun, energetic and a happy time.” Kayla
“Thank you for teaching us about pickleball. It was a really great experience and fun too!” Sulaka
“I had so much fun! It was my first time playing, and I’m sure it won’t be my last.” Mira