Pickleball, an all-in-one combination of tennis, badminton and ping-pong elements, has quickly become one of the fastest growing sports in America. Its simple rules and easy accessibility make it an attractive option for newcomers wanting to enter competitive play - two teams of two to four players use paddles, plastic balls and modified tennis nets in two teams of two to four for two-team competition. Private pickleball lessons provide an excellent way for novice players to hone their game and become better players over time.
Many cities, such as Los Angeles, offer pickleball courts that can be reserved or accessed during general open hours. Sometimes these courts feature an ambassador on-site who can answer questions and facilitate play amongst all levels of players. Furthermore, parks departments may host pickleball-specific tournaments in order to raise funds and awareness of this sport.
Due to its increasing popularity, private companies are providing lessons for both children and adults alike. Classes focus on fundamentals of the game like rules, scoring system and basic hitting and ball placement techniques as well as drills to help develop student's skills further. If possible, students should bring their own equipment; otherwise instructors will provide paddles and balls.
Los Angeles City Parks provide both outdoor and indoor pickleball courts throughout their parks department website, which provides a comprehensive listing of available facilities and their hours. Furthermore, Westchester Tennis Courts feature numerous pickleball opportunities; Mike Koss, an ambassador with the Professional Pickleball Registry who runs an open play league six days per week at this park; courts are divided according to skill level with coaches walking around offering advice and making sure everyone enjoys themselves positively.
Participating in open play costs a small fee; players may reserve courts at an additional nominal cost. The city parks department website lists pickleball-specific events such as tournaments and clinics for easy reference.
Private lessons provide players of all skill levels with a more intimate learning environment for pickleball. Instructors are able to tailor these sessions specifically towards student needs, with particular attention paid towards areas needing improvement. Students should bring their own equipment for this lesson, including shoes appropriate for playing on courts like tennis shoes or court-specific sneakers.
Los Angeles is home to some of the finest pickleball courts, such as those found at Venice Beach's boardwalk courts. Locals and tourists alike flock here for pickleball matches against each other while taking in ocean air. Memorial Park in West Hollywood also provides excellent pickleball spots; featuring five outdoor pickleball courts (one dedicated and four painted on existing tennis courts).