We are championing the benefits of an exhilarating new racquet ball game which is proving a bit hit with local communities across Fife.

We launched Pickleball earlier this year and has seen a steady increase in uptake in the exciting, fast-paced game.

Invented in America in 1965 by a family using bits and pieces around the house, Pickleball – a mix of table tennis, short tennis and badminton – has now become an international success thanks to its accessibility, pace and focus on fun.

Supported by Pickleball Scotland, we now deliver sessions at Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre, Duloch Leisure Centre, Levenmouth Swimming Pool and Sports Centre, Cupar Leisure Centre and Waterstone Crook Leisure Centre.

We are also offering people the chance to become Pickleball ambassadors or coaches and hosting a training session at Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre at 3pm to 5pm for ambassadors and 1pm to 5pm for coaching. Ambassadors will help to deliver games and spread the popularity of the game.

Evelyn Crichton, fitness class co-ordinator for Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said; “We are really pleased with the reception we’ve had to Pickleball – from our first sessions at Waterstone Crook Leisure Centre, we have increased the opportunity to try out this novel game across Fife.

“We now have two trained coaches and one of our ambassadors is playing in the Pickleball Scotland League. We anticipate the game may become more popular as winter sets in and outdoor pursuits become more challenging.”

Nanette Mutrie, Pickleball Scotland, said: “By attending the ambassadors course participants can learn how to introduce the game to newcomers. One of the great attractions of pickleball is that within 20 to 30 minutes we can have newcomers playing a game and enjoying the fun. We mostly play in a doubles format and it is always fun to have a partner to play alongside.

“Pickleball Scotland is going from strength to strength. Please look at the Pickleball Scotland website for some more information of the events we are hosting and where you can play.”

Click here to find out more about Pickleball and the Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre taster session or click here to see the classes available in your area.