The opening of the pickleball courts in Selection Park on October 18 was greatly welcomed by local residents and visitors from other areas. The courts are situated at the Selection Park Tennis Club.

Various people attended the opening and had the opportunity to learn about the sport. One of them was Corline Naude, who drove all the way from Randburg to witness the moment.

Speaking to the Springs Advertiser at the opening, Naude said that she got an invite from a friend and decided to come and learn.

She said that it was her first time playing pickleball but that she plays other racquet sports like tennis and paddle. She highlighted that it is more affordable compared to the other two sports.

“It is not a difficult sport, unlike tennis, to learn, but the strange part for me was scoring because you have to serve to get points. I enjoyed myself in the court,” said Naude.

Naude also said that she will continue playing the sport, but her first loves are tennis and paddle. She advised people who are interested in playing to join, as she considers it good for the heart and a way to release stress.

Sandra Kock, one of the coaches for the newly launched sport, told the publication that having pickleball for the locals is amazing, adding it shows growth and a good community spirit.

She described pickleball as ‘mini tennis’ played in a smaller court. Kock said that driving people to the court will be done through advertising on social media.

“I hope the sport grows in Springs and also hope that we get very busy because it will give people something to do that is affordable and allows for social interaction,” said the coach.

She further said that people interested will have to book a spot on the court via WhatsApp on 062 547 0918.