Pickleball Lessons to Heat Up Fairfield RecPlex: With a surge in popularity over the past year, pickleball has captured the attention of both casual and competitive pickleball players across the globe. This hybrid pickleball sport, blending elements of tennis and badminton, is gaining traction even within the Fairfield University community. Students and staff alike are embracing the fast-paced game, which is typically played with either singles or doubles teams, reaching 11 points to declare a winner.
- Objective: Reach 11 points to win
- Game Style: Similar to tennis and badminton
- Play Setup: Teams of 1-2 players per side
Pickleball’s appeal lies in its simplicity, yet it offers enough challenge to keep players engaged, regardless of their level of expertise.
Lessons with Lloyd Dennis at the RecPlex
Recognizing the sport’s growing presence on campus, Fairfield University’s RecPlex has started offering free pickleball lessons with resident instructor Lloyd Dennis, a member of the Class of 2025. Dennis, who is majoring in finance and management, balances his academic life with his passion for sports by offering weekly lessons to students and staff alike. These lessons accommodate a range of skill levels, from complete beginners to intermediate players, and even offer a specific class for faculty and staff.
- Instructor: Lloyd Dennis ‘25
- Class Levels: Beginner to intermediate, including faculty/staff sessions
- Lesson Duration: One hour
- Capacity: Up to 8 students per session
Dennis emphasizes that pickleball is for everyone, regardless of prior experience in racket sports. “All ages are welcome,” he says, encouraging anyone curious to give it a try.
Fitness and Time Commitment
For students concerned about time constraints or balancing activities with academics, Dennis reassures them that the lessons are designed to be efficient and energetic. “Lessons are quick and active,” he says, adding that they also offer an excellent cardio workout. The sessions last only an hour, making them ideal for those with a busy schedule.
- Session Length: 1 hour
- Cardio Focus: High-energy and movement-focused drills
- Weekly Frequency: At least one session recommended for fitness
Dennis recommends students attend at least one session per week, but for those seeking to advance quickly, he encourages, “Take two classes if you are feeling ambitious.”
A Social and Inclusive Sport
One of the highlights of pickleball, according to Dennis, is the sense of pickleball community it fosters. In his hometown of Naples, Florida, Dennis notes that even an 87-year-old actively participates in the sport, showcasing how age is no barrier. “If an 87-year-old can play, so can you!” he adds, underscoring the sport’s inclusivity and appeal across generations.
- Location: RecPlex, Fairfield University
- Age Range: Open to all ages and skill levels
- Class Size: Maximum of 8 students per session
Students interested in signing up for lessons can do so through the IMLeagues website, where eight time slots are available each week, offering flexibility for participants.
Pickleball’s Rapid Growth
Dennis proudly shares that pickleball has added value to students’ lives, describing the RecPlex program as a “successful program and launch.” As the fastest-growing sport in America, pickleball is not just a workout but also a way to connect with others. The lessons provide an opportunity to meet new people, form lasting relationships, and continue or begin a fitness journey in a fun and supportive environment.
- Growth Factor: Fastest-growing sport in America
- Community Building: Encourages social connections and long-lasting friendships
- Lessons Offered: Weekly sessions for beginners and intermediates
For those looking to join this exciting movement, Dennis’s lessons at the RecPlex are the perfect gateway to both fitness and social engagement.
News in Brief: Pickleball Lessons to Heat Up Fairfield RecPlex
Fairfield University’s RecPlex is offering free pickleball lessons led by Lloyd Dennis ‘25 this fall semester. These lessons, which cater to all skill levels, are an hour-long, fast-paced, and designed for fitness and fun. Pickleball, a sport growing in popularity both nationally and internationally, is played indoors or outdoors with teams of 1-2 players.
Dennis encourages students and staff of all ages to join. Sessions are available through the IMLeagues website, with eight slots each week, accommodating up to eight students per lesson. Pickleball is a social sport that fosters both fitness and community.
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