Ocean Community YMCA Expands Pickleball Facilities in Response to Growing Demand

Are you looking for a fun and engaging way to stay active and socialize with others? Look no further than pickleball! The Ocean Community YMCA has recently completed a $400,000 expansion of its pickleball facilities and programming in response to the increasing demand for this fast-growing sport.

With 13 freshly refurbished and painted pickleball courts at its Mystic and Westerly branches, the Ocean Community YMCA is now offering year-round play in two locations. The Naik branch in Mystic boasts six outdoor and three indoor courts, while the Westerly-Pawcatuck branch in Westerly has four indoor courts.

Pickleball, a combination of tennis and ping-pong played on a badminton-sized court with a paddle and perforated ball, has been the nation’s fastest-growing sport for the past two years. With 4.8 million players nationally, pickleball is suitable for a wide range of ages, skill levels, and abilities.

The Ocean Community YMCA is committed to making pickleball accessible to all, offering clinics for beginners and more seasoned players alike. The sport is not only a great way to stay active but also a fantastic way to meet new friends and ward off social isolation.

Whether you’re 3 or 83, pickleball is a sport for everyone. The YMCA has seen players of all ages on the courts, with the 83-year-old players giving even the president a run for her money. The Y is also working to broaden the accessibility of the sport, offering lessons at summer day camps for children and exploring opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate more fully.

Membership at the Ocean Community YMCA includes access to the new pickleball facilities, with day passes available for non-members. Clinics are also offered for an additional fee, with discounts available for students, senior citizens, and families. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

So why not give pickleball a try? Head over to the Ocean Community YMCA’s Naik or Westerly-Pawcatuck branches and join in on the fun. Who knows, you may just find a new favorite sport and a whole new community of friends.