Richmond Tennis leads pickleball charge

One of the fastest-growing games in the world now has a permanent new home at Richmond Tennis Club.

Having converted two of its courts into permanent outdoor pickleball courts, club captain Annette Bormolini says while tennis remains its cornerstone, the club is thrilled to introduce the exciting and accessible new sport to Richmond and Tasman.

"Richmond Tennis Club was looking for innovative ways to increase membership and fully utilise its hard court surfaces, and pickleball's huge popularity made it an obvious choice."

Pickleball also fits the bill because of the sport's smaller court size, slower-paced ball and ease of play, which make it simple to learn and open to a wide range of fitness levels and abilities.

"People of all ages can enjoy the game, be social and have fun," says Annette.

Installation of permanent nets and temporary lines in late February was made possible with funding from OneFortyOne, Air Rescue Services and Pub Charity Ltd, with efforts underway to raise the $10,000 required to resurface and permanently mark the new courts.

Organised pickleball is currently played at the club on Mondays 6-8pm, Tuesdays 9.30am - 11.30am, Wednesdays 6-8pm and Fridays at 9.30am.

Once permanent courts are installed, pickleball can be played anytime by anyone, through the clubs' Book a Court' system.

If you can help with funding or just want to give the game a go, please contact pickle@richmondtennisclub.co.nz.