Polson Rec offers free intro to pickleball

Polson Parks and Rec is sponsoring a free pickleball class for beginners from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 20 at the O’Malley Park courts. In addition, due to the sport's growing popularity, a new scheduling system will begin May 22.

“If you only played pickleball a few times or never picked up a paddle this is your opportunity to acquire a comprehensive overview of the fastest growing sport in America,” says instructor Mike Marnin.

The introductory event is designed for adults and covers the basics of the game, rules and skill development.

Contact Mike Marnin at 406-696-9292 to reserve a spot and for further details.

Scheduling begins

In order to address the growing number of pickleball players, a new structured playing format begins Monday, May 22, with openings for intermediate/advanced players from 8-10 a.m. and for beginner/intermediate players from 10 a.m.-noon. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, beginner/intermediates play from 8-10 a.m. and intermediate/advanced players take the courts from 10 a.m.-noon. On Sundays, the courts are open to all skill levels from 9-11 a.m.

According to Marin, the scheduling format aims to help improve and increase playing opportunities for all levels of players.

He adds that the schedule may be adjusted through the summer in order to adapt to changing needs. The schedule and other pickleball events will be posted on a message board at the new pickleball shed, located at O’Malley Park.

Volunteer session leaders will help ensure that guidelines are followed and will have the

discretion to adapt the playing format when necessary, he says. Adaptations may include a challenge court, number of games, points for completing a game, rotation flow and other options such as competitive round robin.

For more information, call 406-696-9292.