Ajay Mark Pickleball Uttarakhand Schools: Pickleball, a sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is gaining popularity worldwide. In India, Ajay Mark is leading efforts to introduce the game to students in Mussoorie and Dehradun. Over the past year and a half, he has conducted workshops in multiple schools, inspiring young athletes to embrace the sport.
Bringing Pickleball to Schools
Ajay Mark, who served nearly 40 years as Head of Athletics at Woodstock School, has worked with schools including Woodstock, Wynberg Allen, Mussoorie Public School, The Doon School, Welham Boys’ School, Kasiga, Olympus High, Doon International Riverside, and Doon Girls’ School. Each workshop has sparked excitement, with students quickly learning the sport’s mix of agility, strategy, and fun.
“Pickleball is more than just a game. It’s a bridge between generations and an excellent way to promote health, skill, and camaraderie,” said Ajay Mark. “My hope is to see students not just playing but excelling in it. It’s great that The Doon School has taken the lead by making three brand new Pickleball courts on their campus. I’m hoping that other schools will follow soon. My aim is to continue Pickleball workshops and cover as many schools as possible by the end of 2025.”
Understanding the Sport
Pickleball courts are the same size as badminton courts (44 X 20 feet) with a net 34 inches high at the centre and 36 inches at the sides. Matches can be singles or doubles, played up to 15 or 21 points. The ball is made of hard plastic, and paddles are made of wood, plastic, or synthetic materials.
The game has unique terms like “the Kitchen,” a non-volley zone of seven feet on either side of the net, and shots such as “Erne” and “ATP shot.” It is suitable for all ages, easy to learn, and promotes agility, strength, and coordination.
Ajay Mark first encountered Pickleball two years ago in Duluth, Minnesota, where his daughters and their families live. He said, “Gloria Smith was instrumental in introducing me to Pickleball. Last summer, I participated in a Pickleball tournament in Duluth. This summer again I’m looking forward to playing regularly while visiting my family. One can get hooked very easily to Pickleball once you start playing this sport. This exciting sport came into my life at the right time after retirement. Pickleball came quite naturally to me since I play all racket sports.”
Growing Pickleball in India
Ajay Mark’s initiative comes as India prepares to host the World Pickleball Championship in Mumbai this November. His efforts are helping young athletes gain exposure and skills as the sport expands nationally. With more schools building courts and sports companies producing equipment, Pickleball is steadily becoming part of India’s sporting culture.
Through his workshops, Ajay Mark is fostering healthy competition, sportsmanship, and fitness, laying the foundation for a vibrant Pickleball community in Uttarakhand.
News in Brief: Ajay Mark Pickleball Uttarakhand Schools
Ajay Mark is promoting Pickleball in Mussoorie and Dehradun schools. He has conducted workshops at several institutions, inspiring students to learn the sport. Pickleball is accessible for all ages, promotes fitness, and is gaining traction in India ahead of the World Pickleball Championship in Mumbai this November.
ALSO READ: Goa’s Golden Duo: Noel Noronha and Audrey Menezes Lead Stunning Pickleball Sweep at Nationals