New sessions offer beginners the chance to try pickleball in Castle Douglas

Beginners are being given the chance to learn about one of the fastest growing sports in the world.

Pickleball sessions for novices will start in Castle Douglas at the end of February.

The sport is proving popular as it’s easy to access, easy for younger players to learn and easy on the joints for older players.

Families and groups of friends can play together and the only equipment needed is a paddle, balls, a net, comfortable clothing and sports shoes.

It’s a sociable sport and can be played by two, more usually four, with lots of talking and laughing during play. There are few rules and most players pick up the basics after only a few games.

Pickleball is relatively approachable and a great picker-upper, requiring very little practice, compared to tennis or badminton, so that after a few games most players have picked up enough skills to really enjoy the sport. It blends together different elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis, meaning people can have fun with very simple rules.

There is enough to the game that as players’ experiences grow, they build up skills and enjoy it even more, and while not being as aggressive as some other indoor sports even competitive players can get a good work out.

The chance to learn how the basics of pickleball begins at Castle Douglas High School’s games hall on February 28 and continues every week between 7pm and 8.30pm until March 20. You can start as an absolute beginner and end up a seasoned player.

The cost is £9 per session and spaces can be booked by contacting Mark on 07875269073 or marksindall@hotmail.com.