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Pretoria Embraces the Rising Popularity of a New Family Sport
When it comes to the fastest-growing sport globally, there may not be a definitive answer yet due to the lack of specific research. However, one sport that unquestionably ranks in the top five in terms of rapid expansion and popularity is Pickleball.
So, what exactly is Pickleball? It’s a relatively new sport that has gained traction and followers daily. Combining table tennis, badminton, and tennis elements, Pickleball offers a unique and enjoyable playing experience. One of the reasons for its remarkable growth is its accessibility to players of all ages, making it appealing to a wide range of individuals.
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In Pickleball, players use paddles reminiscent of ping-pong paddles but larger and often made from more advanced materials. The game can be played both indoors and outdoors on a court similar in size to a badminton court, with a net resembling that of tennis.
South Africa is witnessing the rise of Pickleball, although it is still relatively new to the region. In cities like Pretoria, there are not many sports clubs actively involved in practising this sport. However, in the Moot area of Pretoria, Pickleball has taken the local community by storm, particularly at Munies, better known as the Pretoria Municipal Sports Club in Annie Botha Avenue, Riviera.
The Munies Pickleball Club has already gained official affiliation with Pickleball SA, which is, in turn, a member of the International Pickleball Federation. The sport’s popularity is spreading further, with other clubs embracing Pickleball in the Moot and Centurion areas and other parts of Gauteng. An official league is on the horizon, and clubs are already engaging in structured matches against one another.
As the sport gains momentum, tennis courts in these clubs are undergoing conversion to accommodate Pickleball, ensuring ample space for enthusiasts to partake in this exciting sport.
Currently, Munies boasts six courts where Pickleball enthusiasts can engage socially on Wednesday evenings at 17:00, while official matches involving multiple clubs occur on Saturdays starting at 08:00.
For those eager to be part of the Munies’ Pickleball club and join the wave of this emerging sport, Marius Engelbrecht can be contacted at 082-821-5217.
Pickleball’s rapid growth in local and global popularity showcases its potential to become a significant player in the sporting world, offering an enjoyable and inclusive experience for players of all ages.
Watcha s a few Munies Pickleball club members enjoy the sport:
Source: Popular new family sport is gaining ground in Pretoria
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Photo: Supplied by Rekord
