You may have heard the thwack-thwack-thwack of pickleball play coming from courts in Center City and Northwest Philly. Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America, so City Cast Philly wanted to learn what all the fuss was about.
We recently hit the court with USA Pickleball ambassador and local instructor Andrew Freedman to get the inside scoop on how you can start playing in the city.
What Is It?
The game is a mix of ping-pong, badminton, and tennis, and it originated in 1965 in Bainbridge Island, Washington. Freedman said families were seeking fun ways to entertain their restless kids during the summer. They incorporated different elements of each sport, and boom: pickleball was born 🏓
Trenae Nuri and Andrew Freedman enjoying a morning of pickleball at Seger Park. (Abby Fritz/City Cast Philly)
Equipment:
Pickleball doesn’t require much gear, and it’s quite affordable. All you need is a paddle (which you can snag for under $100), and a pickleball (you can grab a pack of 3-4 for under $20).
Best Free Philly Courts:
- Seger Park has four courts. You can join this meetup group and play with fellow enthusiasts through October.
- You can also join a group and play on one of FDR Park's 10 outdoor courts.
- There are six lighted courts at the Water Tower Recreation Center in Chestnut Hill.
If you’re not naturally athletic, don’t worry. Pickleball is light on running, beginner-friendly, and accessible for people of all ages. We believe in you! 💪
