Pickleball Instruction Hits In Wolf Point
Pickleball has hit Wolf Point with instruction offered on Thursdays at the community’s tennis courts.
“Pickleball is the fastest rising sport in America right now,” Jessica Pipe, Wolf Point Caŋku coordinator, said. She noted the activity is particular popular on cruise ships and retirement homes.
She is offering instruction from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursdays (except for July 4) at the tennis courts. The class is free of charge for all students in grades K-12.
Pickleball features a hollow plastic ball and paddles. Differences between pickleball and tennis include a smaller playing surface, the ball doesn’t bounce as much as a tennis ball and there’s a non-volley zone. Also, all serves must be underhand.
“It’s not as difficult as tennis, but it’s getting your activity level up,” Pipe said. “And we have this nice facility to use.”
The 2023 report by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association notes pickleball has grown 87.5 percent yearover- year and 158.6 percent over three years.
Pipe was introduced to pickleball by her brother, Jared, who became familiar with the game in New Mexico.
“He’s definitely better than I am,” Jessica said.
In addition to pickleball, the program offers a style and glam club from 3 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Dumont building of the Fort Peck Community College’s Wolf Point campus. There will be different topics each week such as nail art and face masks.
An art class is offered on Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Dumont building.
