How I Fell in Love with Pickleball: A Colorado Adventure

Have you ever heard of pickleball? If you haven't, you're missing out on one of the most exciting and accessible sports out there. I first discovered this game on a family vacation in Vail, Colorado. My fiancé, our 10-year-old and 12-year-old children, and I were looking for an outdoor activity to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings of the Rocky Mountains. That's when we stumbled upon pickleball, and our lives were never the same again.

As newcomers to the game, we were a bit nervous and unsure of what to expect. We grabbed some paddles and balls and headed to the court. At first, we struggled to even make contact with the ball, whiffing it several times before finally getting a good hit. We also quickly learned the importance of staying out of the kitchen, or the non-volley zone, and were guilty of jumping in too soon.

Despite our initial clumsiness, we found the game to be incredibly fun and addictive. The compact court and slower pace made it easier for us to keep the ball in play and learn the basic rules. We spent hours playing and practicing, gradually improving our technique and getting more confident with each game.

One of the things I love most about pickleball is that it's a game for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, young or old, the game is easy to pick up and provides plenty of room for mastery. It's also a great way to bond with family and friends, as we found out during our trip to Vail.

Since that first game in Colorado, I've been hooked on pickleball. I've played in tournaments and leagues, met amazing people, and even started my own blog dedicated to the sport. Pickleball truly is a game for all, and I can't wait to share my love of it with others.