Have you ever heard of pickleball? Believe it or not, it’s an actual game that’s been steadily growing in popularity since it was invented in the 1960s. In fact, according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association’s 2015 Participant Report, pickleball is played by over two million people.

So what is pickleball? It’s a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong; it can be played both indoors and outside; and it can be played whether you’re in eighth grade or your eighth decade. Also, don’t let the name fool you – no pickles are actually used in game play.

There are currently pickleball courts in various locations throughout South Jersey, including Cherry Hill, Gloucester, Marlton, and Moorestown. Overall, they’re very well-frequented. Several residents have inquired whether Pennsauken could convert one of its tennis courts to accommodate pickleball players. The Township would be willing to do so, if enough residents are interested in playing the game.

To gauge the community’s interest on having a pickleball court in Pennsauken, residents are asked to contact Estelle Sey at PennsPickleball@gmail.com. The Township is asking that only residents in Pennsauken and Merchantville respond to this request.

For more information on pickleball, including why the game was given its peculiar name, visit http://www.usapa.org.