Pickleball | Exploring this Fast-Growing Sport on the South Shore
Pickleball, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has been gaining in popularity all along the South Shore. Here’s a few places where you can join in on this fun hybrid sport.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a hybrid sport that provides a fun and social experience for people of all ages and fitness levels. Combining strategy, agility, and hand-eye coordination, pickleball is easy to learn and provides an excellent workout.
Pickleball is played on a court with a 34 inch high net. The sport combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net, with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. Pickleball can be played as singles or doubles.
South Shore Pickleball Clubs and Facilities
The South Shore is home to several pickleball clubs and dedicated facilities that cater to both recreational players and those seeking competitive play. Here are a few notable ones:
South Shore YMCA:
The South Shore YMCA offers pickleball programs for players of all ages and skill levels. They have indoor courts and provide regular clinics, lessons, and organized play opportunities.
Indoor court:
1075 Washington Street
Hanover
781-829-3219
Outdoor court:
79 Coddington Street
Quincy
(617) 479-8500
Marshfield Recreation Dep’t
The Marshfield Recreation department offers pickleball lessons for beginners through advanced players.
Peter Igo Park
35 Marshall Ave. & Dyke Rd.
Marshfield
(781) 834-5543
Pickles NE
The ultimate pickleball center offering drop-in play, leagues, indoor and outdoor courts, and beer and wine!
357 Columbia Road (Next to Planet Fitness)
Hanover
781-816-5021
The Weymouth Club
The Weymouth Club is working on 6 new pickleball courts and anticipate completion by mid-June. Courts will be available for drop-ins, court time, clinics, and lessons shortly after completion.
75 Finnell Drive
Weymouth
781-337-4600
New England Racquet Sports
Located at Thayer Sports Center, this large facility has 8 indoor courts.
1535 Washington St.
Braintree
Pickleball Equipment and Retailers:
To fully enjoy pickleball, it’s essential to have the right equipment. The South Shore is home to numerous sporting goods stores and retailers that carry pickleball gear. They offer a wide range of paddles, balls, shoes, and accessories to suit every player’s needs. Some courts have gear shops, and you can always find equipment at the larger sporting goods stores, including Dick’s Sporting Goods in Hanover.
From organized leagues to casual play, the South Shore offers diverse opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels. So grab a paddle, head to one of the many pickleball facilities, and experience a fun workout in this thrilling sport.