Complexe Sportif La Pêche Pickleball Courts: Pickleball has come to the Complexe Sportif La Pêche in Sainte-Cécile-de-Masham, marking a big step for the sport in the community. Six official pickleball courts have been added to the arena, just in time for the 50th anniversary of the municipality of La Pêche.
Bringing Pickleball to Masham
The new courts were created through the work of Dan Labelle, who helped set up the space. Dan Labelle worked with James Yantha from the Centre de curling des Collines de Chelsea and Jean-Pierre de Beaumont, founder of the Académie de Pickleball.
This is the first time Masham has had official pickleball courts. Dan Labelle was involved in the arena years ago, when he refereed its first hockey game. Now, he has returned to help bring pickleball to more people.
A Sport for All
Pickleball is a mix of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played with paddles and a plastic ball on a small court. The game has become very popular among older adults because it is easy to learn, low-impact, and social. Many people in Québec first played it while spending winters in the southern United States.
Jean-Pierre de Beaumont said the Académie de Pickleball aims to make training open and welcoming to everyone.
Free Introductory Event
To celebrate the new courts, residents can join a free event on June 22 at 10 a.m. at the arena on 20 chemin Raphaël. All equipment will be provided, and no one needs prior experience.
Jean-Pierre de Beaumont will be there to teach the basics and encourage people to try the sport. The event welcomes all ages and is part of efforts to promote healthy living in the area. Dan Labelle described pickleball as “the perfect sport-game for aging in action and in health.”
Looking Ahead
The launch of pickleball in Masham shows how sports spaces are changing to meet new interests. It could help more people stay active and connect with others. With the growing popularity of the game, more local events and programs may follow.
News in Brief: Complexe Sportif La Pêche Pickleball Courts
Six official pickleball courts have opened at Complexe Sportif La Pêche in Sainte-Cécile-de-Masham. Dan Labelle, James Yantha, and Jean-Pierre de Beaumont worked together to create the courts. A free event on June 22 will welcome new players of all ages to learn and try pickleball.
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