Pickleball lessons offered at Robe-Ann

Pickleball lessons anyone?

Invented in the mid-1960s as a children's backyard pastime, Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. Two, three or four players using solid paddles made of wood or composite materials hit a perforated polymer ball, similar to a whiffle ball, over a net.

The sport shares features of other racquet sports, the dimensions and layout of a badminton court, and a net and rules similar to tennis, with a few modifications. Pickleball has emerged as a popular sport and a fun game for players of all ages and levels.

Greencastle Parks and Recreation Department officials invite anyone interested in learning the game of Pickleball to join them in Robe-Ann Park this Saturday morning, July 2 and again on Monday morning, July 4 from 7:30 a.m. to "when it gets hot."

David Boswell, an area Pickleball enthusiast, and members of the Greater Terre Haute Pickleball Association will be in attendance to give free instruction on the sport of Pickleball.

Pickleball rackets and balls will be made available to those who may not have one yet.

Greencastle Parks and Recreation Director Rod Weinschenk is excited to share the information and the game of Pickleball with Greencastle and Putnam County residents.

"I learned about the sport of Pickleball at an Indiana Parks and Recreation Association-sponsored event," Weinschenk said, "and along with Mr. Boswell's interest is what sold us on constructing Pickleball courts with the tennis court renovation.

"Having him and the Terre Haute Pickleball Association share their enthusiasm about the sport with Pickleball lessons is exciting," the park director added. "So, again, please join us this Saturday and Monday mornings, July 2 and 4 for Pickleball lessons."

And, speaking of Monday morning, July 4 residents are reminded to register for the 25th annual Mike Rokicki 5K Road Run/Walk. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the race starting at 8 a.m.

"I can't think of a better way to spend Independence Day than in Robe-Ann Park beginning with a morning jaunt through the streets of Greencastle, followed by Pickleball lessons, pancakes, music, corn hole, softball, games and ending with the annual fireworks display."

The fireworks will begin at dusk Monday.