Different Strokes
(continued from page 3)
Mary Crusius of Southern Pines also played during the
tournament. The 90-year-old says she didn’t have an
opportunity to play sports until she took up Pickleball.
“I’m having the time of my life,” Crusius said
between her matches. “I’m loving it. It’s such an
easy sport to pick up and it’s so great to be able to
meet new people. Now, give me a paddle and some-
thing to hit and I’m at home.”
Cabarrus ALPs staff members talk almost daily to
residents looking to start playing the game, Donaldson
says. And once they give it a shot, they’re hooked.
ALPs offers clinics and tournaments throughout the
year with the assistance of USAPA ambassadors
(like Bohlayer) and in partnership with Concord
Parks & Recreation.
The game is straightforward enough to learn rela-
tively quickly, Bohlayer said. And startup expense
is minimal. “The best thing you can do is just come
out, give it a try and see what you think,” he added.
“I can say from experience that Pickleball is the greatest
physical exercise for me at my age — it has brought a
wealth of other needed aspects to my life.” n
Where to play
Cabarrus County has several locations that offer
indoor and outdoor Pickleball courts, including:
Frank Liske Park: 4001 Stough Road, Concord,
has two outdoor Pickleball courts incorporated
with the tennis courts.
Hartsell Recreation Center: 60 Hartsell School
Road SW, Concord, has three indoor Pickleball
courts open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and two outdoor courts
open from dawn until dusk.
Logan Multipurpose Center: 184 Booker Drive,
Concord, has two indoor courts open on Tuesdays
and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Carolina Courts: 24 Spring Street SW, Concord
4
JOURNEYS Spring 2019
Mary Crusius, 90, readies her backhand during the
N.C. Senior Games state finals in Concord. Since taking
up Pickleball, “I’m having the time of my life,” she said.