FOLEY - The Bama Beach Pickleball Club held its Valentine’s Classic Tournament in February, drawing in a huge crowd including competitors from all across the southeast. The event saw over 250 players having fun, competing, and making new friends and memories during the four-day event held at the Foley Event Center.

“Everyone had a great time, and we received many compliments,” said Bama Beach Pickleball Club member Lucy Douty. “Thank you to all the players and especially to the many volunteers who did a fantastic job.”

Over the last decade pickleball has become the nation’s fastest growing sport, with courts becoming high demand across the country. The Bama Beach Pickleball Club was formed in October 2017 to meet the interest of pickleball players in our community, and since then that interest has grown. The group plays at the Gulf Shores Church of Christ Mon.-Sat. from 9 a.m. to noon and from 6 - 9 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays. The cost is $3 per person, and a typical day sees around 35 players on the courts. All proceeds made from players is collected and donated to the church in exchange for use of the courts.

Pickleball is a mix of ping pong, badminton, and tennis and is played on a smaller court than tennis. All ages can play the sport. Membership is $20 a year and gives access to tournaments, community events, and club get-togethers and cookouts.

Those who are looking for a place to play can download the Places to Play app and input your location to get a detailed map of nearby places that offer pickleball courts. For those who want to join the Bama Beach Pickleball Club, they have organized courts from beginner to advanced, so you can play with those who have similar levels. To learn more about Bama Beach Pickleball Club, check out their website at https://bamabeachpickleballclub.teamapp.com.