Activity Leader

Randy Schmidt (Newcomer)

Email: randall.d.schmidt@gmail.com

Pickleball is a game created in 1965 in the state of Washington by 3 dads creating a fun game for their kids. Today it is widely considered the fastest growing sport - especially for Baby Boomers. It is a fun racket sport less taxing on the body than tennis yet is just as fun and scientifically shown to be a better workout. Pickleball is played on a court about a third the size of a tennis court with a ball similar to a whiffle ball and paddles about twice the size of a ping-pong paddle. It is easy to learn, and you can get very sophisticated in game play. If you played tennis, racket-ball or table tennis or badminton before that really helps. There are even PB Professionals and national championships. Tom Brady, Drew Breeze and LeBron James are invested in the sport. Search for lessons or watch matches on YouTube.

As of December 2022, we have over 50 PB players from Newcomers or Alumni group – and the count grows monthly.  Many started playing recently after an orientation/training session I was able to provide along with the help of other experienced players. We play at the New Bern Recreation Center that has six outside courts and two inside courts. We mix with other non-club members who play the game.

There is a Team Reach app you can install on your Apple or Android device to be connected to this broader community in order to learn when others are playing.   When you install Team Reach enter the code 020521 to join the Rec Center group.

We generally play with 4 people to a court, so having others around to join in play is helpful. The Rec Center play is busiest MWF and Sat mornings.  There is evening play with lights too.

To Attend:

To be added to the group's email list, sign up at a general meeting or email the group leader.

Pickleball is played at:  

(West New Bern Recreation Center - 1225 Pinetree Road, New Bern)

Check https://www.places2play.org for a more complete list of places to play near New Bern or anywhere you travel.  Options abound.

Ladders

We have held five Newcomers/Alumni Club Pickleball Ladders- often playing with temperatures in the 40’s – 90’s and sometimes windy. The ladder involves playing once a week for six weeks and rearranges players by results to match people of similar skills.   Typically we have a potluck gathering after the last match. Thanks to all participants and substitutes for making this happen!  Tier winners will receive Pickleball Tier Champ shirts or plaques.

For Info on Scheduled Activities

For upcoming events, check the calendar on the Home page.

Also, check the latest newsletter on the Newsletter page.