Recognising World Pickleball Day on 10 October, local pickleball organisations will come together to host 'World Pickleball Weekend' with free activities for players of all abilities at venues across the Central Coast.
World Pickleball Weekend aims to introduce new players to the sport, enhance the skills of current enthusiasts, get people more active and foster social connections through Pickleball.
Events will be held at a range of venues, including Peninsula Leisure Centre, Gosford Tennis and Pickleball Club, Breakers Indoor Stadium, Bateau Bay PCYC, Summerland Sporties, Kariong Tennis courts and Pat Morley Oval Bateau Bay, which will host an activation specifically for people with a disability.
For those looking for a self-guided introduction to Pickleball, simply borrow a kit from either Kariong, Kincumber or Bateau Bay Library or Old Mates Kitchen at Green Point Shopping Centre and head to a local court.
The kits have everything needed to play Pickleball, including a net, balls, paddles and simple instructions on how to play. To find a local court go to https://sportcentralcoast.org.au/sport/pickleball/
For more details on the range of World Pickleball Weekend activations across the Central Coast or to make a booking go to https://sportcentralcoast.org.au/world-pickleball-weekend/
Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, said:
"The NSW Government is committed to supporting sport and active recreation opportunities for every age group and ability level so that all members of the community can enjoy the benefits of physical activity.
"This wonderful initiative will bring the communities together across the Central Coast and provide a whole new group of people with the opportunity to engage in a fun and emerging sport."
Minister for the Central Coast, David Harris, said:
"Pickleball is one of Australia's fastest-growing sports. It's a combination of Tennis, Table Tennis and Badminton, but you don't need experience in any of these sports to enjoy Pickleball.
"It's a relatively easy to learn which makes it perfect for people of all ages and abilities.
"It's fantastic that the Central Coast is hosting this celebration of the sport. With numerous local clubs and venues providing opportunities for both competitive and social play, there's never been a better time to get involved in Pickleball."
Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said:
"Council supports healthy active lifestyles and Pickleball is a wonderful way to connect with your community and enjoy the many benefits physical activity brings," Ms Smith Said.
"We're celebrating World Pickleball Day in support of our local clubs who provide these opportunities.
"I also want to remind our residents that they can also take up the opportunity at some of our libraries to borrow Pickleball kits, complete with all necessary equipment, with the same ease as borrowing a library book."
Pickleball NSW Central Coast Ambassador, Tomas Vana, said
"Pickleball is an incredible sport that helps to unite communities.
"From kids to seniors and people of all levels of ability and backgrounds, it provides an accessible and affordable option for everyone to enjoy.
"We hope to see as many people as possible getting along to one of the many locations to play Pickleball during World Pickleball Day events."
