YMCA offers unique indoor sporting event
ROSEBURG, Ore. -- Now that the weather is cold, the YMCA has an activity that can help you get in a workout while making a few new friends.
Around 20 people are already dedicated to the sport. They get their gear ready and suit up twice a week for some serious game play.
It's called, 'Pickleball.'
"The best comparison I've heard is, it's like ping pong on top of the table," said player Steve Bahr.
The YMCA hosts the game twice a week, and officials say there's always a pretty good crowd, but it's not just about the game. "The social part of it, everybody likes to be social, they're always down here talking, making new friends," said Christine Turvey of the YMCA.
Bahr agrees, saying it's a great way to meet new people. "It's a very social sport. We rotate around, play with different players all the time."
Pickleball is pretty similar to many other racket sports, but there are a few differences: The ball is plastic, the net is lower and players say the game is a little less demanding.
"A lot of us come from from other sports, like raquetball or tennis. And it's just, since the court is smaller, it's easier to play," said Bahr.
Anyone is welcome to join in. Playing is free for YMCA members and community members wanting to give it a shot.
If you want to try your hand at pickleball, you can drop by the matches on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The Y also offers family pickleball on Wednesdays and Fridays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
