Madison Parks and Rec to host pickleball clinic at Dublin

MADISON — Thanks to Madison’s Parks and Recreation Department, baby boomers and seniors will be able to try their hand at pickleball Oct. 2 and 4 in the Dublin Park gym from 9-11:30 a.m.

According to Robin Watson, Generations Program coordinator with Madison’s Parks and Recreation Department, pickleball is played on a court with a paddle and wiffle ball.

“It is similar to tennis, but not as strenuous and is being played all across the country in recreation and senior centers,” Watson said.

For the pickleball clinic, Watson said expert pickleball player Kate Lahti will teach the fundamentals to beginners with Dylan Reutter, athletic programs assistant. Lahti is a member of Huntsville’s Pickleball Club, which Watson said is “fast-growing.”

The clinic is free to attend. The Madison Pickleball Club will provide all necessary equipment at the clinic, and those interested “can join at any time,” according to Watson. Attendees are encouraged to wear shoes that will not leave marks on the gym floor.

For those that can’t make the October sessions, Watson said a November clinic is also being planned.

Anyone who enjoys the game is welcome to attend pickleball open play at the following days and times: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. – noon; Tuesday and Thursday from noon – 3 p.m.; and Saturday from 6:30-8 p.m.

For more information, contact Watson at 256-772-2554 or Reutter at 256-772-2568.

Dublin Park is located at 8324 Old Madison Pike in Madison.