Sussex County Pickleball Clinics: More than 15 certified pickleball instructors in Sussex County will offer free pickleball clinics this June and July for children ages 8 to 16. The events, led by local teacher and instructor Mary Egan, aim to introduce young players to the sport and build interest in future leagues.
Clinics Scheduled in Frankford
The children’s pickleball clinics will be held at John M. Clayton Elementary School, located at 252 Clayton Avenue in Frankford. One session is set for Saturday, June 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A parent-child clinic is scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.
Two earlier clinics, on Monday, June 16, and Saturday, June 21, at the same location, have already reached full capacity.
Instructors Committed to Teaching
The group of instructors includes Elizabeth Panzer, Carol Reitz, Robin Procida, David Procida, Kim Dougherty, Karen Katcher, Linda King, Steve Romano, Brenda Roland, Liz McNeese, and Chris Veale. These volunteers come from many fields, including education, healthcare, and business.
“Our volunteers are all experienced pickleball players, and include a doctor, nurse, educators, businesspeople and retirees, who will all be helping,They are all wonderful people who are so generous with their time.”-(Mary Egan)
Mary Egan said the idea began with an adult pickleball group in Sussex County that wanted to give back.
“An adult pickleball group in Sussex County decided to bring it to the youngsters this summer for free. These experienced players are promoting involvement in the sport by offering free clinics to children and parents, with the hope of encouraging the continued learning about and growth of the sport. We hope to build interest and involvement in pickleball, get kids playing and, hopefully, see this become a league sport in Sussex County. This program is a test to see the level of interest.”-(Mary Egan)
What Kids Will Learn
Children will learn the basics of pickleball during the clinics. This includes how to serve and hit forehand, backhand, lob, and dink shots. They will also learn about scoring and court positions.
All equipment needed for the clinics has been donated. Paddles from Engage, safety glasses, and pickleballs have been provided at no cost. Courts have been made available through 1st State Pickleball.
A Growing Sport with Big Potential
Pickleball is a fast-growing sport played with paddles and a plastic ball. It can be played in singles or doubles. Players try to hit the ball over a 34-inch-high net without making a mistake. The game started in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, and now more than 50 million people play it across the United States.
These free clinics aim to bring that excitement to a younger crowd in Sussex County. If the program receives a strong response, organizers may start a local youth pickleball league.
News in Brief: Sussex County Pickleball Clinics
Free pickleball clinics for children ages 8 to 16 will be held in Sussex County this June and July. Led by Mary Egan and 15 certified volunteers, the events aim to grow youth interest in the sport. Registration is open, and all equipment and instruction will be provided.
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