Pickleball Tournament in Altona: Pickleball is gaining momentum in Altona, drawing players of all ages to its courts. The town recently hosted its first-ever pickleball tournament at the Rhineland Pioneer Centre, marking a significant milestone for the growing community of enthusiasts. The event featured 12 teams, including five mixed-gender teams, and was well-received by participants. The sport, described as a mix between badminton and tennis, is played on a small court with a solid paddle and a perforated ball.
“We play on a badminton-sized court with a solid-core paddle and a ball similar to a Wiffle ball. The net is just a little lower than a tennis net.” – (Sawatzky)
Its appeal lies in its accessibility, making it easy for beginners while still challenging for advanced players.
“It’s an easy game to pick up, but like any sport, it’s more difficult to master.” – (Sawatzky)
A Sport for Everyone
Pickleball has seen rapid growth across North America, often replacing tennis courts at resorts and community centers. In Altona, the sport has been available at the Rhineland Pioneer Centre since 2018, with an 18+ league and a youth program running through the recreation department.
“The 18+ program is in its second year, and the youth program has also been going for two years now.” – (Sawatzky)
Sawatzky highlighted the sport’s unique ability to bring different generations together.
“Seniors are playing it. Young kids are playing it. And kids are playing with seniors. It’s a multigenerational, mixed-gender sport. It’s just easy to play and very addicting.” – (Sawatzky)
A Successful First Tournament
Altona’s first pickleball tournament featured players of varying skill levels, from newcomers to experienced competitors.
“We had 12 teams—24 players—five of which were mixed-gender teams. Some players were new to the sport, while others, like myself, have been playing for seven or eight years.” – (Sawatzky)
The tournament followed a double-knockout format, giving each team at least two opportunities to play before elimination.
“We had a lot of positive feedback, and they want to do it again.” – (Sawatzky)
Looking ahead, a singles tournament is planned for April, when play moves to the curling club.
“It’s a younger sport because you have to cover the entire court by yourself.” – (Sawatzky)
Expanding the Game in Altona
Local schools, including Parkside School and W.C. Miller Collegiate, have integrated pickleball into their physical education programs. However, space constraints remain a challenge.
“We have painted lines on the town’s three tennis courts, so they’re also dual-purpose for pickleball. But outdoor play is limited by the wind, and indoor play at the Pioneer Centre is restricted during the holiday season.” – (Sawatzky)
To address this issue, pickleball courts will move to the curling club in April, providing better facilities and more accessibility. “That’ll be a much better facility with higher ceilings, and we’ll have access for as long as we want,” Sawatzky said, adding that the change is expected to draw even more players.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in trying pickleball, Sawatzky encourages newcomers to contact the recreation department.
“Contact the recreation department, and we’ll set up an afternoon or evening clinic for newcomers. We want new people to come in, and I guarantee nine out of ten will be back—if not ten out of ten—because it’s a lot of fun!” – (Sawatzky)
News in Brief: Pickleball Tournament in Altona
Pickleball is thriving in Altona, with the town hosting its first-ever tournament at the Rhineland Pioneer Centre. The sport, popular among all ages, is expanding locally with leagues, youth programs, and school involvement. Plans include moving courts to the curling club for better facilities and hosting a singles tournament in April.
ALSO READ: Mark Your Calendars: Calvert County’s Pickleball Tournament Coming Soon