At the Westbury Sports Centre, a growing group of locals is embracing the lively game of pickleball – a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Already hugely popular in America, the game is played with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball, with the action taking place on a compact, badminton sized court.
“It’s similar to tennis in that players serve diagonally across the court,” explains centre organiser and regular player Anthony Harris. “The net is only a metre high, which makes it a bit easier for us experienced people to get it over – hopefully.”
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Sessions are held every Tuesday morning from 9:00am to 11:00am, and new evening games on Thursdays from 7:30pm to 9:00pm will be introduced in late February to attract more participants. The initiative is managed under the Meander Valley University of the Third Age (U3A), an organisation dedicated to fostering fitness, learning, and social interaction.
To participate, players must join U3A, with its next registration event scheduled for the 4th of February at the Westbury RSL. The modest membership fees cover venue hire and insurance, thanks in part to the backing of the Meander Valley Council.
“The council has been really supportive,” Harris says. “They give us a great deal on hiring the facilities to encourage older members to get out, exercise, and be social.”
Since its inception, pickleball at Westbury has flourished. In 2024, the group averaged 16 players per session, filling all four courts with occasional opportunities for breaks. Harris notes that the relaxed atmosphere fosters camaraderie among players, while also providing a good workout.
The social and physical benefits of the sport have been evident for Harris. “It gets me out to have intensive exercise and to socialise,” he says. “Meet other people with similar interests.” The game’s accessibility, with its smaller court and lighter equipment, has made it particularly appealing to older adults, but all ages are welcome to play
While the group has built a solid foundation, there are plans for growth in 2025. The recently introduced Thursday evening games aim to attract a younger demographic, including working adults who might not be free during weekday mornings. “We have the facilities available, and could take more participants if they’re interested,” Harris says. “There’s potential for more participants and more games – if there’s enough interest.”
The organisers are hopeful that expanding the schedule will encourage a diverse group of players to experience the joys of pickleball, the sport’s combination of light-hearted competition, physical activity, and community engagement proving so far to be a winning formula.
Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to contact the Meander Valley U3A for more information at meandervalleyu3a@gmail.com. The group welcomes players of all skill levels, and new participants are sure to find an inviting and supportive environment.
With its unique and accessible blend of fitness and fun, pickleball continues to grow in popularity not just at the Westbury Sports Centre but worldwide, bringing people together and strengthening ties wherever it goes.
