‘Be Active’ Campaign Brings Pickleball to Down Leisure Centre

A new sport is making its debut at Down Leisure Centre this autumn. From 11 September 2019, pickleball sessions will take place every Wednesday, from 11.30am to 12.30pm.

Pickleball is a paddleball sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball over a net. The sport provides a good aerobic workout and can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels. While the rules are simple and the game easy for beginners to learn, it can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Terry Andrews said, “The Council is delighted to bring new initiatives to our district that will help our citizens integrate physical activity into their everyday routines.

“Our Sport and Leisure department, through its ‘Be Active’ campaign, is keen focus on providing our residents with new and interesting ways to lead healthier and happier lives. Introducing pickleball to our leisure centres is one such scheme and I am certain it will prove a real hit.

“’Be active your way every day’ is our goal for all the citizens across the district and wider area.”

The ‘Be Active’ campaign is an integral component of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Corporate Plan commitments to develop key infrastructure that will improve leisure centres and introduce new activities that can be accessed by all.

The pickleball sessions will be part of the Everybody Active programme and each session will cost £1 per person.

Caption:

Pickleball comes to Down Leisure Centre. From left: Tony McShane, Duty Manager, Down Leisure Centre; Gerard McAnulty, Clanrye EBA coach; Councillor Terry Andrews, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson; Colleen Morrison, Sports Development Officer, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.