Aiken’s Youth Embrace Pickleball with Exciting First Paddle Program
This November, Aiken has not only been treated to some delightful fall weather but also to an exciting new initiative that’s bringing the sport of pickleball to the forefront for its younger residents. On November 17, the students of the First Paddle program wrapped up a six-week pickleball course that wasn’t just about developing athletic skills, but also about learning life lessons that could benefit them well beyond the court.
Teaching Pickleball and Life Skills
Held at the vibrant St. John’s Methodist Church, the First Paddle program, run by the Southern Pickleball Academy, saw 16 enthusiastic youths, aged between 10 and 16, taking their final swings at their beloved sport. Over the weeks, these kids dove into the world of pickleball, learning its basics as well as crucial aspects like sportsmanship, conflict resolution, and personal accountability.
“Each of these skills can be taken off court and into their lives,” expressed Bob Fogle, co-director of the academy, with pride. He emphasized that the lessons they’re learning are as valuable as mastering how to serve a ball. Among the skills taught were communication techniques, dealing with failure smartly, maintaining integrity, and of course, good sportsmanship. It’s a holistic approach that aims to develop well-rounded individuals.
A Mini-Tournament to Wrap It Up
The final session featured warm-up drills and a mini-tournament, giving everyone a chance to experience what it’s like to be part of a pickleball tournament. Beth Eberhard, the academy’s other co-director, noted, “Some of them started from scratch and some had already played a little bit with their parents. They have varying degrees of ability, but all of them have progressed.” This adaptability ensured that every participant walked away feeling accomplished.
Looking Towards the Future
The excitement didn’t stop there! Eberhard shared future plans for the program, hoping to expand it to different age groups and ability levels. “We hope to offer these kids follow-up sessions to focus on smaller groups with more directed instruction,” she said, sparking cheers from both children and parents alike. The prospects of new sessions in February or March have generated buzz in the community.
Why Kids Love Pickleball
Why pickleball, you ask? Certified pickleball instructor Lisa Barrett-Johnson highlighted the adaptability of children, stating, “They are little sponges. Kids learn much faster than adults. They are amazing and they love to learn.” With over 40 million people in the U.S. taking to the courts, Barrett-Johnson mentioned that the under-21 demographic is relatively small, so this program is a step in the right direction to change that.
Parent Praise for the Program
Parents have been thrilled with the development and energy of their kids during this course. Bonnie Collins, whose grandson participated, said she appreciates the focus on etiquette. “Now I can take him to play pickleball with me,” she beamed. Similarly, Adina Premo expressed her enthusiasm for her daughter Charlotte, who couldn’t wait to jump into the program after trying her hand at pickleball at school. “It’s been really good for her,” Premo remarked.
As the final sessions wrapped up, parents felt grateful for the life lessons imparted alongside the sports skills. As Tosha McAlister, whose daughter enjoyed the program, pointed out, “We’ll be sorry to see them go, but are hopeful they will carry not just pickleball skills with them, but also life lessons that they can apply to their lives at home, in school and beyond.”
With such resounding success and community enthusiasm, it’s clear that Aiken’s First Paddle program has not only sparked a passion for pickleball but also aimed to shape resilient and responsible young individuals.
