Building a Pickleball Program from the Ground Up: Part 4
We are about 6 months into our Pickleball journey and there is much to update since my last report. The numbers participating in the drop in program, classes and social activities have continued to grow. Some activities have been very successful while others have struggled. We have learned a lot and are continuing to learn as we attempt to build a solid long term YMCA wide Pickleball program in our area.
Updates since our last entry:
● In an attempt to increase access for all those that want to play, we have opened up additional times in the morning and evening.
● We continue our bimonthly Pickleball party.
● The YPC (YMCA Pickleball Club) has become official.
● Our first doubles pickleball ladder, player run, gradually fizzled out before the end of the January finale. In reviewing the ladder, the timing was not ripe for a player run program. We will revisit as the overall program gets more established.
● We began new classes in February. Because of demand and the desire to provide more focused instruction, we needed to put limits on the number of members that could sign up for each class. The following are the classes for this cycle:
A newly created 45 minute cardio Pickleball class. We have a limit of 8 and after the first class we now have a sign up and waiting list.
A multi-class fundamentals for those completely new to Pickleball. The aim of the class is to help those brand new to the game to better understand the basic strokes and rules so that they can move forward in playing with the open play group.
A four class two week next level fundamentals class that is designed for advanced beginner to intermediate level players. The class is a progressive class going through each primary stroke with the aim of providing students with the knowledge, strategy and stroke technique to help them (through practice) take their game to the next level. Both sections of the class are full and there is a substantial waiting list.
● Two other YMCAs in the area have also started various levels of activities, some organized such as a tournament and the other just investing in nets, lines on the tennis court and open play.
Next:
● When we began this project we made the argument that there needed to be an investment in facilities and organization. The goal was to prove the need. Because of the growth and demand for Pickleball at this YMCA, that goal has been achieved earlier than expected. As a result, the investment and building of courts has started.
● As the other YMCA programs increase participation there are plans (already discussed) for a YMCA league.
● An end of summer YMCA and county wide tournament is being developed.
● Small group level based classes (e.g., doubles strategy, singles play) are being organized.
● An ability level evaluation program will be offered.
Marketing for the program has started and with that, has been an increase in members wanting to try the game. This will necessitate more programs devoted to "new" players. One of the goals was for the YMCA to become a hub for Pickleball in the area and with the new facilities coming and planned cross collaborative league and tournament play we are well on our way to achieving this goal.
