Jennie Davis’s Pickleball Program: Peterborough’s pro pickleball player Jennie Davis is changing the narrative about the sport being exclusively for seniors. As a coach, consultant, and advocate, Davis emphasizes the growing popularity of pickleball among younger players.
“Pickleball has grown by over 200 percent in the last three years, and the biggest growth in pickleball is actually in the under-24 age group. Pickleball is very accessible to kids and to seniors, and that’s of course why they play so much.” – (Jennie)
Pickleball’s unique mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong on a smaller court makes it ideal for participants of all ages and abilities, including children at Five Counties Children’s Centre.
The “Pickleball for All” Initiative
Since spring 2023, Davis has collaborated with Five Counties staff to run the “Pickleball for All” program. This initiative introduces kids with exceptionalities and disabilities to the sport in a fun and supportive environment.
A key feature of the program is adapting the game for accessibility. For instance, during the November session, balloons replaced traditional balls, helping participants gain confidence in using pickleball racquets.
“Pickleball is a very special sport in that it is accessible for kids of all ages and abilities, and so I just find it super meaningful to be here,” says Davis, who first discovered the sport at Trent University in 2016.
Building Skills Through Fun
During the November session, Davis used creative pickleball drills to ensure inclusivity and engagement. Participants practiced tossing balls at a homemade target named “Ernie” and aimed for bullseyes to improve accuracy. The activities were tailored to each child’s skill level, ensuring everyone could participate meaningfully and enjoy the game.
“It’s always amazing to see young people out, off their devices, and gaining confidence, playing a sport that’s easy for everyone to play.” – (Jennie)
Her work with Five Counties highlights how pickleball bridges gaps and builds confidence in kids.
Breaking Barriers in Sports
Davis is particularly excited about the growth of para-pickleball, an adaptive form of the sport for individuals with disabilities. She continues to champion efforts that make sports more inclusive, collaborating with organizations like Five Counties to break down barriers to recreation.
Five Counties Children’s Centre lauds Davis’s contributions, noting how her efforts have brought smiles to children of all abilities, empowering them to discover the joy of pickleball.
News in Brief: Jennie Davis’s Pickleball Program
Peterborough pickleball pro-Jennie Davis is transforming access to sports at Five Counties Children’s Centre with the “Pickleball for All” program. Designed for kids with disabilities, the initiative uses creative adaptations like balloon-based drills to build confidence and skills.
Davis, an accomplished athlete and coach, emphasizes pickleball’s accessibility, especially for young people and para-athletes. Her passion for inclusivity is evident as she inspires kids to leave their screens behind and engage in a sport that’s easy for everyone to enjoy. Five Counties celebrates Davis’s work in creating meaningful opportunities for kids to learn and play.
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