---

Interest in pickleball continues to grow across the U.S. and worldwide. The US Pickleball Association, the governing body for this burgeoning sport, reports that there are approximately 2.8 million persons playing at literally thousands of courts across the country. And those numbers increase monthly.

The Longville community has three courts at Stuart Park and the loosely organized club has more than 40 members this summer. The group got its start five years ago when they raised funds to extend the planned basketball court to accommodate pickleball play as well. Many of the local players find indoor courts in the area or play in warmer climates during the winter months to maintain exercise programs and improve their play.

An instructional clinic for beginners is planned for Thursday, Aug. 30 at 5:30 p.m. at the pickleball courts located near the west side of Stuart Park. Bob Seemann, a club member and longtime coach of a variety of high school sports, will provide instruction along with assistance from several experienced club members. "We want to increase the number of players in the area to include more local, full time residents-young and adult," Seeman explained. "It's a sport that doesn't require lots of equipment nor lots of time to play a game. Plus, it is so much fun and great way to socialize with friends and family-young and older," Seemann added.

Participants are asked to bring non-marking tennis shoes, water and a paddle if you already own one. Otherwise, paddles will be provided.

If you are interested, contact the club president, Kathy Newton, by email to register at [email protected]. The clinic will be two hours, including time to play a game or two. The cost is $5 which includes a pro-rated club membership for 2018. The clinic is limited to 12 persons due to space restrictions at the court. Register right away.[[In-content Ad]]

---