Decorah pickleball group experiencing tremendous growth

(Left to right): Players Ron Snell (partially hidden), Jane Newhouse, Denny Larson and Christy Tomlinson

The fastest growing sport in America is taking Decorah by storm. Pickleball -- a sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and ping pong -- is growing in popularity not only in cities across the country, but right here in Decorah, too.

Pickleball is similar in many ways to tennis, but instead of playing with raquets, players use oversized paddles, and instead of hitting a tennis ball, players smack a plastic Wiffle ball. The game is played on a badminton-size court using a modified tennis net. Decorah enthusiast Jeff Tomlinson describes pickleball as, "A senior version of tennis for active adults, with an associated social benefit."

What began years ago in Decorah as a small group of pickleballers getting together to play occasionally, has developed into a enthusiastic group of 15-20 people playing 3-5 days a week year-round. During the winter months, the group plays indoors at Luther College, but soon they will be moving outdoors to play on the city tennis courts.

Decorah Park and Rec has supplied most of the pickleball equipment used by the group, but as local interest has grown, so has the need for more court space and equipment. To accommodate for the rapid growth, Decorah pickleballers recently purchased 2 more nets, and hope to expand their outdoor court space from 2 to 4 this summer.

Decorah pickleball group co-organizer Deb Larson says, "Our group has really been growing. We have players of all levels, but especially lots of beginners." In order to help those new to pickleball learn how to play, Tomlinson offers instructional sessions each week for anyone who is interested. For others with more experience, Tomlinson notes there is plenty of opportunity for competition.

If you have questions about the Decorah pickleball group or if you would like to receive information about their weekly play dates and times, email group organizers Debra Larson (deblarson4@hotmail.com) or Nancy Nelson (decorahnancy@gmail.com).

Kathy Tollefsrud

Bruce Newhouse

Denny Larson

"Four Decorah pickleball players volley the ball