NPCC to offer pickleball classes

North Platte Community College will offer beginning pickleball classes starting in January.

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States. That’s according to the USA Pickleball Association, whose data indicates pickleball has seen a 650 percent increase in participation over the last six years.

Figures from the Sports and Fitness Industry Association show interest is up 21.3 percent just since 2019. Approximately 4.2 million Americans now play the sport at least once a year.

Pickleball is a paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. Played with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball, it is a fun and social sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Pickleball is most often played as doubles.

The rules are simple, and the game is easy for beginners to learn. It can develop into a fast-paced, competitive contest for experienced players.

NPCC’s Business and Community Education department will offer four pickleball classes from 9-11 a.m. Jan. 18, Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and Feb. 8 at the North Platte Recreation Center. Sessions will also be available from 6-8 p.m. Jan. 19, Jan. 26, Feb. 2 and Feb. 9, at Adams Middle School.

All will be taught by instructor Barb Baldridge.

The registration fee is $29 for four classes.

Participants are asked to wear court shoes and take their own water bottles to the classes. Equipment for the game will be provided.

Registration can be done online at: bceregister.mpcc.edu, by calling (308) 535-3687 or by emailing smeltzerj@mpcc.edu.