Cold Lake’s Youth Pickleball Revolution: The Cold Lake Pickleball Club and Pickleball Alberta are hosting a junior pickleball clinic for ages 12 to 18 at Assumption Gym. The clinic begins April 25 and runs into early May, offering young players a chance to improve their skills and explore the sport’s growing potential.
Training the Next Generation
The clinic is designed to help youth athletes develop in pickleball. Sessions will be held over two weekends. The first session starts on April 25 from 7 to 8 p.m., followed by more training on April 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Final sessions take place on May 3 and 4.
The cost to attend is $75. An extra $25 is required for Pickleball Alberta and Pickleball Canada memberships unless participants are already members. Each player will receive a Poach Paddle, safety glasses, and a cap.
Breaking Age Stereotypes
Pickleball is often seen as a sport for older people, but organizers hope to change that. “It’s not just for granny anymore,” says Lara Bates, treasurer of the Cold Lake Pickleball Club.
She highlights Anna Leigh Waters, who began playing professionally at age 12. Bates praises Waters as “an exceptional player with an impressive win record and earning potential.”
Olympic Dreams and Skill Building
Bates says the clinic is not just about competition. It also encourages long-term interest in the sport.
“Basically, what we’re trying to do is we’re working in conjunction with Pickleball Alberta to try and find the next Olympic gold medalist. Because hopefully it’s going to be at the Olympics in the next go-round.” – (Bates)
The pickleball community is hoping for Olympic inclusion by 2028.
Open to All Skill Levels
The clinic is structured to help beginners and experienced players.
“We’re able to meet the kids where they are in their knowledge and skill. If they’re a beginner, we’ll start right from the beginning, and if they’re advanced, they’ll get to hone their technique and learn strategies to take their play to the next level. If the kids have never really played much pickleball, we’ll start with just an intro.” – (Bates)
Though the clinic is for ages 12 to 18, younger players can join if they’re comfortable with the pace.
Led by Trained Coaches
Coach Della Curry from Pickleball Alberta will lead the sessions. She’ll be supported by two local club members in their 20s who recently earned Level 1 coaching certification.
“Pickleball Alberta has actually inspired this Hotshot program, and they’ve developed it.” – (Bates)
Pickleball Alberta is organizing the clinic, including registration and scheduling.
Looking Ahead
Bates sees growth in local youth interest.
“I’m starting to see some kids out there outdoors. It’s slow, but it’s coming. We’re hoping to inspire a young athlete who might find that pickleball is their true passion, and maybe they’re going to want to take it to the next level for themselves.” – (Bates)
The clinic’s goal is to spark passion and provide a new path for young athletes in Cold Lake.
News in Brief: Cold Lake’s Youth Pickleball Revolution
A junior pickleball clinic for ages 12–18 is coming to Cold Lake this spring. Sessions start April 25 at Assumption Gym. Organized by the Cold Lake Pickleball Club and Pickleball Alberta, the clinic costs $75 and includes gear. It welcomes all skill levels and aims to grow youth interest.
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