Drop-in pickleball to be offered at Admiral Coontz Recreation Center beginning Tuesday

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Pickleball is not only the fastest-growing sport, it is also a welcoming sport. Newcomers are always encouraged to join, especially during Drop-in Pickleball, which will be offered Tuesday night at the Admiral Coontz Recreation Center from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 5, 12, 19 and 26 and on April 9, 16, 23 and 30. Cost is $5 per participant each night.

Drop-in pickleball allows players to “drop in” and play games. Courts will be designated for competitive, intermediate and leisure players. Four players will start on a court. When a game is complete, the winners will remain on the court and separate. The losers will go to the bench. Two new players from the bench will join the new game. This system allows people to play with new partners.

In a press release, Emily Hultgren, recreation supervisor with Hannibal Parks and Recreation, said, “Drop-in play is a great way to work on your pickleball skills and meet new players.”

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong using a paddle and plastic ball with holes. It is a game that is appropriate for players of all ages and skill levels. Rules for pickleball are simple, making it an ideal introductory sport.

Portable pickleball courts are used at the Rec Center with up to four courts available at a time. A pickleball league will be formed in September. There are six designated pickleball courts at Huckleberry Park.

More information about Drop-in pickleball is available by calling 573-221-0154 or by visiting www.hannibalparks.org.