By Julie Tomaro
West Milford — "Pickleball is growing in popularity" says Steve Lavorgna the Ambassador for the Wayne location of the USA Pickleball Association.
"It's the fastest growing sport in the United States," he said.
The popularity of the sport is attributed to it's growing leagues in community centers, YMCA facilities and physical education classes around the country, including West Milford.
The sport combines the elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis and the rules are simple and easy to learn.
It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball and can be played indoors or out. Organizers of the pickleball program offered by the West Milford Community Services and Recreation Department hope that students exposed to pickleball will see how competitive and fun the sport is and will encourage the students to participate year round.
"Pickleball is currently offered as an elective in the physical education department at West Milford High School and the students who were chosen to participate in the tournament were the champions of their class period tournament," said Joe Trentacosta, director of athletics for the West Milford Township Public Schools.
Dean, a senior at West Milford High School said that he started playing the sport in gym class and when they won a tournament during their gym period, they were awarded a field trip to come to the West Milford recreation center to play against those who play the sport competitively.
"The sport creates a healthy competition in the classroom and the incentive for the students to try their best and experience something new," said Jessica Allison, physical education teacher.
The following students were participants in the tournament, Dan Budd, Brandon Peters, Hunter Muth, Jack Logan, Lucas Mantz, Jimmy Patton, Marissa Rubin, Michael Saporito, John Kenny, Brandon Lucas, Joseph Hubinger, Dean Montasanto, Michael Pullins, Brian Nager, Danielle Dellapi, Tyler Harrington and Brent Milligan.
Pickleball player Ed of Wanaque was an avid tennis player for years before he began playing pickleball a year ago.
"Once I was introduced to pickleball I fell in love with the sport," he said. "What I love most is that there is no age limit and it's a game that you can play for hours."
For informationFor information, contact the West Milford Recreation at 973-728-2860.
Registration is $10 a month or a full year for $90.
The West Milford Recreation Department is located at 66 Cahill Cross Road, West Milford.