Play Pickleball at Public Parks

Pickleball is a paddleball sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball, much like a wiffleball, over a net. 
 
A few years ago, Donald MacDonnell helped introduce pickleball in the community, and says the growth in participant numbers has skyrocketed in the past year.  
 
“When we started playing pickleball in the MUN Field House it was just me and my wife Brenda but before long, and up until the recent lock down, we had people playing every day both morning and afternoons at the Field House and the St. John’s Tennis Club,” says Mr. MacDonnell.
 
“I estimate that 90% of the pickleball players here in St. John’s are over 50 and many are way over 65 - our oldest player is 86!“
 
Pickleball is known as being a welcoming, easy and inexpensive sport for people of all ages; all that’s required is a paddle and ball. Pickleball can be played indoors or out and while typically played as a doubles match those who like an additional workout often play singles.
 
Donna Alyward has played pickleball in other Atlantic provinces and says it’s been exciting to watch the pickleball community expand in St. John’s.
 
“Since retiring and having more time to play I’ve met many pickleball enthusiasts in St. John’s ranging in ages from their 20’s to well into their 80’s, and it’s been easy to find fellow players who are up for a game,” says Donna.
 
Pickleball is an easy to learn sport that is fun and a great way to be more active and meet new friends.
 
“Like any recreational or competitive sport, you look for ways to improve your game but with pickleball every time you step on a court you’re guaranteed to create a lot of comradery, fun and laughter every time.” 
 

City of St. John’s Pickleball courts are at:
Wishingwell Park
Cowan Heights Park
Cherry Hill
Larch Park
Spruce Meadows Park
Bowring Park NEW
 
While not modified specifically for Pickleball, it can also be played outdoors on any of the City’s 17 tennis courts; find locations here. 

Donna Alyward plays pickleball in St. John's