RANDOLPH, NJ - The Randolph YMCA hosted a Pickleball Clinic conducted by nationally-ranked Pickleball player and instructor Sarah Ansboury on Wednesday, May 9.
Approximately 24 people attended the two sessions where Ms. Ansboury and colleague Linh provided group instruction and individual coaching during the clinics. Ms. Ansboury is a Gold and Silver medalist at the 2015 Tournament of Champions. In November, she medaled four times at the USAPA National Tournament including winning Gold in Women’s Doubles at the US Open in 2016 and 2018.
According to Ms. Ansboury, Pickleball is growing in popularity on the East Coast and her goal is to bring the sport to areas that need it. “Instruction is vital to build programs,” she said.
Ms., Ansboury, Linh and their two dogs travel the country in an RV, delivering Pickleball clinics to players of all levels.
Pickleball is a court game that is a cross between tennis, badminton and ping pong. The rules are similar to those of tennis, but the court is half the size of a regulation tennis court and serves must be below the waist and underhand. The game is designed for all ages and abilities and provides a cardio workout as well as balance and eye-hand coordination training.
“We offered Pickleball twice a week when we first introduced the sport to the community in 2015,” said Bill Lamia, President and CEO of the Randolph Y. Adding, “Today, we offer Pickleball 14 time each week.”
Pickleball is free to Randolph YMCA members; non-members pay a guest fee to participate. The Y has a limited number of racquets for use and sneakers (preferably tennis shoes) are required.
