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There has been much back and forth about the “value vs. costs” of new pickleball courts in Reading. I think many people who don’t play believe that the senior demographic is the only demographic who will benefit from the building of new and dedicated courts in town. To recap, some of the benefits to seniors are, exercise, inclusion, social contact, health benefits, both mental and physical, friendships, and inter-generational interest (we play with our 30 something children and with young neighborhood children who are under 10 years of age). Many of us have played with teens who show up to Memorial Park with or without knowledge of the game (or paddles – many of us carry extra paddles) where those teens have gotten free lessons, the most positive support, and grandparent-like advice all while exercising and having fun with older folks. What other activity brings those benefits? I can think of none. The game is a healthy outlet for all and an age-bridging game for sure. It really is something special and priceless.
Across the country, many high schools have begun pickleball programs as club and varsity sports. There are several already in Massachusetts and the numbers are growing quickly. I hope that residents of Reading can see that this sport and the support of it by our town leaders is of great value to the community as a whole. I have added a link for more information about the growing interest at the high school level which will soon also become more popular than it is currently at the college level. Thank you.
Susan Cameron
Whitehall Lane
