Cochrane Pickleball Club: In the fall of 2022, the Town of Cochrane introduced pickleball as a new recreational activity, hoping to invigorate the community with a fresh, engaging sport. The Cochrane Pickleball Club quickly emerged as a key player in this initiative, offering residents an opportunity to embrace this burgeoning sport. The club’s debut was marked by promotional efforts in the Cochrane Times-Post and on Facebook, drawing initial interest to the two pickleball courts set up at the local pavilion.
Adapting to Challenges
As the summer of 2023 approached, the pavilion’s busy schedule with weddings and other events necessitated a temporary relocation. The club moved its activities to the Tim Hortons Event Centre while the ice pad was out of use. However, when the municipal strike hit later that year, closing several town facilities, the club adapted once again by taking to the outdoor tennis courts from August to September. This adaptability has been a hallmark of the club’s efforts to maintain play throughout varying circumstances.
With the return of the ice in the winter, the club went back to the pavilion, but the onset of hockey season in August necessitates another move to the tennis courts. Despite these logistical hurdles, the club remains dedicated to providing a consistent and enjoyable experience for its members.
A Welcoming Community
Nancy Bouvier, a long-time member of the Cochrane Pickleball Club, describes the group as a vibrant and welcoming mix of individuals, primarily seniors in their 50s, 60s, and 70s. The club’s current membership stands at 12-15 players who gather twice a week, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bouvier emphasizes that the club’s focus is on enjoyment and fitness rather than competition. The group has a slightly higher number of female members and operates on a pick-up style format that fosters a relaxed atmosphere.
“It’s open to anybody. We’re not professionals — far from professionals — but we just want to have fun, and it keeps us moving,” Bouvier says. The club encourages a casual approach, where participants can join as their schedules allow, without the pressure of a formal commitment.
Looking to Expand
A recent pickleball tournament held during Bearfest aimed to attract new players and boost interest, though it saw limited success with only one new participant. Despite this, Bouvier and the club remain optimistic about future growth. They are inspired by the more established pickleball communities in places like Smooth Rock Falls and are exploring options to secure a new venue with additional courts to accommodate their growing numbers.
Bouvier highlights the potential for expanding the club’s offerings, noting that younger players could also be attracted to evening play if there is sufficient interest. “Normal is four persons per court, and we only have two courts, so if there’s 10 people that show up, well then two people have to sit out for a game, and then we just rotate them in,” she explains.
Embracing the Sport
For those considering trying pickleball, Bouvier’s advice is straightforward: “Bring a good pair of running shoes and see if you enjoy it.” The club provides all necessary equipment, eliminating the need for new players to invest in their own gear. The Cochrane Pickleball Club’s Facebook page serves as a hub for information and updates, offering a gateway for newcomers to join and learn more about the sport.
Bouvier describes pickleball as a blend of volleyball, ping pong, and tennis, making it an accessible and enjoyable sport for people of all skill levels. The club’s emphasis on fun and community ensures that all participants can enjoy the benefits of pickleball, regardless of their experience level.
News in Brief: Cochrane Pickleball Club
The Cochrane Pickleball Club, launched in fall 2022, continues to expand its presence in the community despite several logistical challenges. Initially starting with two courts at the local pavilion, the club moved to the Tim Hortons Event Centre during summer 2023 and adapted to municipal closures by using outdoor tennis courts. Currently, the club is back at the pavilion but will move outdoors again as the ice returns for hockey season. The group, led by Nancy Bouvier, primarily consists of seniors and meets twice a week. Despite limited turnout at recent events, the club is optimistic about growth and encourages newcomers to join. For more details, visit the Cochrane Pickleball Club’s Facebook page.
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