The Remarkable Life of Nelson Ball: Nelson Ball, known as the “father of pickleball” in Westborough, introduced the sport to his community after discovering it by chance. While playing tennis in Venice, Florida, he heard an unusual “pop” from across the gym and followed the sound to find two men playing pickleball. That moment sparked his dedication to the sport.
A New Sport for Seniors
Ball, an experienced tennis player, noticed that as his peers aged, they struggled to keep up with the physical demands of the game. Seeing the potential of pickleball, especially for seniors, he decided to learn and promote it.
“I thought, ‘Man, I’m going to have to learn that game,’” Ball told the Community Advocate.
He and his friends traveled across Central Massachusetts to play, often bringing painter’s tape to mark court boundaries and using weights to lower tennis nets. Despite the lack of proper facilities, their enthusiasm kept the game alive.
Building a Legacy
As pickleball’s popularity grew, Westborough added four courts, but Ball believed more were needed. In 2020, he personally funded the construction of four additional courts near Lake Chauncy. These courts, named the Nelson Ball Pickleball Courts, are now a community hub. Ball, now 93, enjoys seeing people of all ages using them.
“When I drive by, it’s so great just to see all those people using the courts. I did it because I thought there really wasn’t anything for adults – and we had to do something for the seniors. It’s a great mixer. It’s not so much the physical element, it’s the sociability for seniors. That’s so important. They meet new people and they do things. I’ve had people tell me I saved their life,” (Nelson Ball).
A Life of Service
Born in Orange, New Jersey, Ball faced financial challenges growing up. He commuted several miles to college, worked multiple jobs, and even delivered milk to afford tuition. After graduating from Upsala College, where he met his wife, Sylvia, he joined the U.S. Army and served in Korea as a counterintelligence agent from 1954 to 1957.
During his service, Ball learned Korean and volunteered at an orphanage, dressing as Santa for the children.
“Except for being away from my 2-month-old daughter and wife, I had a good tour,” . “One of the best things I did was I taught English to seven college women while I was there. I never realized how difficult English was to learn. They wouldn’t understand me at first, but by the time I left, they got all the puns and the jokes.”(Nelson Ball)
Business and Philanthropy
After the Army, Ball moved to Westborough and established Ball Financial Services in 1965. He ran the business from his basement for five years while raising five children. Today, two of his children manage the company, which has grown significantly.
Beyond business, Ball has dedicated himself to community service. He was the first president of the Westborough Rotary Club, served as scholarship chairman for 25 years, and helped award over $1 million in student aid. He remains actively involved in the club.
A Passion for Music and Faith
Music is another important part of Ball’s life. He plays the trombone in the Interboro Community Band and was the first president of the Westborough Music Parents Association. He believes music is essential, saying, “Without music, the world would be flat.”
Despite his age, Ball continues to run his business, play music, and enjoy pickleball. With a family history of longevity, he hopes to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, who lived to 103. He credits his faith for his success.
“Trust in God. He’s been so good to us. We’re so thankful for everything,” (Nelson Ball).
News in Brief: The Remarkable Life of Nelson Ball
Nelson Ball, 93, introduced pickleball to Westborough after discovering it in Florida. He funded four courts near Lake Chauncy and continues to play. A U.S. Army veteran, business owner, and community leader, Ball remains active in music and philanthropy. He credits faith for his success and long life.
ALSO READ: Pickleball Debuts at Shaver Rec Center with 70 Players on Opening Day