The pickleball phenomenon has come to Massapequa High School. The increasingly popular sport is now an afterschool activity with a two-month intramural pickleball program.
Nearly 30 students attended the inaugural pickleball gathering on March 31, and it will continue to meet on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays through May. The idea came from seniors Jack Boland and Robert Coll, who have become avid players at local parks.
“We thought it would be a good way to bring everyone together and stay active,” Robert said, who added that it was rewarding to see the idea come to fruition.
“It gets me outside and it’s a great way to bond with my friends and meet new people,” Jack added about what appealed to him about the sport.
Once approved, Jack and Robert spread the word about the new pickleball intramural through Instagram and word of mouth. They were very excited by the turnout for the first day and hope to see it continue to grow.
“People seem very excited,” Robert said. “They enthusiasm has been awesome. It’s a very simple sport. It has a low floor and a high ceiling.”
The high school’s main gymnasium accommodates six pickleball courts, which were created with badminton nets hung just above the floor. Physical education and athletics Chairperson Brian Rath said the school was able to purchase some paddles but many students are avid players and bring their own.
Mr. Rath and physical education teacher Leigh Ann Zimmer oversee each pickleball session. Following a quick overview of rules and skills, students pick their partners and go play. The intramural program welcomes all students from beginners to seasoned players and strives to match opponents based on ability levels.
“It’s an up-and-coming activity,” Mr. Rath said of pickleball’s growing popularity. “It's a sport that anybody can play.”