PickleballCANADA
PICKLEBALL ON ICE ?
As winter approaches in Canada , the colder temperatures begin to make outdoor pickleball play uncomfortable and eventually impossible . Though , Canadians love our pickleball and the weather isn ’ t about to stop some of us from playing — a few hardy souls even throw on their hockey or figure skates and play pickleball on ice ! While I haven ’ t tried it yet , I ’ m sure skates and ice add yet another degree of difficulty to this addictive sport .
Out on the west coast , we often have the good fortune of receiving an extra month or two of outdoor play during the autumn season , but inevitably almost all pickleball in Canada moves indoors . Indoor pickleball has its own charms and benefits . You don ’ t need to worry about lobs into the sun , the lighting is consistent no matter the time of day , and the wind is no longer a factor , to name but a few . On a daily basis , portable nets are assembled and — in locations without permanently painted lines — temporary lines are taped or set into place inside halls and gymnasiums across Canada to try to keep up with the demand .
As the popularity of pickleball continues to rapidly rise in the nation , fully dedicated indoor pickleball facilities are also beginning to emerge . Despite these and the many temporary courts ,
By Wayne Kerr
there is a shortage of places to play in most locations . Booking a court time can often be difficult . What is an avid player to do ? Well , many of us flock to warmer climates where pickleball can be played outdoors year-round .
Every year , more and more Canadians are getting their pickleball fix in Mexico . Many attend two- to five-day camps or getaways , while others spend several months there at a time . Pickleball in Mexico is growing quickly to help accommodate the tourists migrating its way . You can find a number of courts in many of the west coast cities and resorts , while on the east coast there are courts in Cancun and Merida , with more springing up across the country .
Pickleball-specific vacations and cruises are a growing trend and getting popular with Canadians
Pickleball on Ice ! Photo by Mike ( Botts ) Botterill .