For quite some time now, pickleball has captured the hearts and courts of individuals seeking fun ways to stay active. The sport that combines elements from tennis, badminton and ping-pong has thrived in the Coastal Bend as the area continues to offer more options for play. From newly opened facilities to classic courts, there are a variety of local spots to hop on the trend and get active.
The Corpus Christi Athletic Club’s brand-new 23,000-square-foot indoor pickleball facility features eight indoor courts, an upstairs viewing area, full locker rooms and state-of-the-art amenities to level up your game and build connection. The pickleball team offers programs for beginners to experts, with classes, programs and open play.
Another option is to engage in the game at Corpus Christi Country Club, which offers an endless array of community sports, including one signature pickleball court and three Pro-Cushion pickleball courts for members.
Al Kruse Tennis & Pickleball Center remains a great option for public play. Players can access 10 pickleball courts with a low cost to rent paddles and the ability for reserved and open play.
One of the most notable factors of pickleball is how it creates community and connection; Facebook groups such as the Coastal Bend Pickleball Association and Coastal Bend Pickleball allow those interested to find tournaments, clinics, quality tips, coaches and a place to celebrate wins.
“The accessibility and the entry level is so easy to learn,” said Coastal Bend Pickleball founder Ruben Zuniga. “[One of the] most important things other than the ease of getting into it is the social factor. Where else can you go meet people, have fun and be active?”
Adult Open Play at the Corpus Christi Gym is also available for a small drop-in fee. There are three group sessions, one held Friday evenings at 6 p.m., another held Thursdays from 12 to 3 p.m. and a women-only session held Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Those interested can register to play online on the city’s Parks and Rec website.
If you’re looking to improve your game, Tennis Success Community Courts & Center offers open play for every skill level on Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. Players can find and schedule games by registering at playtimescheduler.com.
Four open-play city neighborhood courts with pickleball lines are also available to the public on a first-come, first-served basis: Aquarius Park, St. Andrews Park, Sandy & Don Billish Park and Parker Park. All you have to do is bring your own net.
The rise of the popular paddle sport comes from its accessible rules and low-impact exercise for all ages and skill levels. It is a perfect way to get competitive and socialize with a wide range of players, and it can be played as singles or doubles.
“Pickleball is really good for hand-eye coordination. It is good for balance and is kind of like if ping pong and tennis had a baby. Mentally, it is such a good outlet,” Corpus Christi Athletic Club Pickleball Manager Wendi Schlesinger said of the sport’s benefits.
Ready to become a picklehead? Grab a paddle and visit a local spot to play. Soon, you will be dinking with the pros.
