Pickle ball opening day set April 15 at Robe-Ann Park

Pickle ball, a combination of tennis, ping pong, badminton and racquetball, has arrived at Greencastle's Robe-Ann Park with the recent completion of six courts.

Pickle ball is played on a badminton-size court with a lowered net. Players use paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball, similar to a whiffleball.

To celebrate one of the fastest-growing sports, the Greencastle Park and Recreation Department will stage an opening-day program on Saturday, April 15 from 8 a.m. until noon.

Local pickle ball enthusiast David Boswell will offer a quick lesson or two and invites residents to attend one of the drop-in times for open-court play.

The drop-in schedule is as follows:

Monday night -- 6:30-8:30 p.m., for all.

Tuesday morning -- 8 a.m., for women.

Thursday morning -- 8 a.m., for men.

Saturday morning -- 8 a.m.-noon, for all.

Those who want to learn pickle ball or improve their skills in the game can take part in pickle ball lessons on four Tuesday and Thursday evenings in May at Robe-Ann Park.

Pre-registration is required for lessons to be conducted May 9, 11, 16 and 18 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Persons can call the park office at 653-3395 to register.

The entry fee is $20 per person, which includes membership and access to the storage cabinet. Registration deadline is Friday, May 5.

Participants usually play with partners, making four to a court.