Drop-in pickleball to be played Tuesday nights at Admiral Coontz Recreation Center

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal Parks and Recreation is offering drop-in pickleball from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, starting Nov. 2, at the Admiral Coontz Recreation Center through Dec. 14. Each participant must pay $3 per night.

Courts will be designated for competitive, intermediate and leisure players.  Players are welcome to “drop in” for games.  Four players start on a court. When a game is complete, the winners will remain on the court and separate. The losers will go to the bench. Two new players from the bench will join the new game. This system allows people to play with new partners. 

Pickleball is a paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong using a paddle and plastic ball with holes. It is appropriate for players of all ages and skill levels.

“It’s not like tennis, where you spend years serving and chasing the ball,” said Jenna McDonald, recreation supervisor for Hannibal Parks and Recreation. “You actually start hitting a pickleball over the net the first time you practice. That’s what a lot of people find enjoyable. They’re having fun right away.”

More information about drop-in pickleball is available by calling 573-221-0154.