WESTBOROUGH – The Westborough Public Library and the Recreation Department recently hosted an information session on the sport of pickleball at the Nelson Pickleball Courts in town.
Taking place on June 16, the event educated attendees on the rules of pickleball, as well as the specifics of how to borrow paddles and balls from the library.
The Nelson Pickleball Courts formally opened in August of last year as an expansion of existing facilities across the street from Westborough’s Lake Chauncy Public Beach.
Named in honor of local pickleball leader Nelson Ball, the courts provided new space for players of a sport that is rapidly growing across demographic and generational lines.
Indeed, pickleball has exploded in popularity in recent years, as it marries elements of ping pong and tennis to create an intense but accessible competitive sport.
Outside of Westborough, a thriving pickleball community frequently rallies around Marlborough’s Ward Park.
In Northborough, meanwhile, town meeting voters just approved funding to build new pickleball courts at their community’s Ellsworth McAfee Park.
Speaking last year at what was a ceremonial ribbon-cutting event, local players took pride in Westborough’s courts.
“The town of Westborough has done a great job of making this,” John Campbell told the Community Advocate. “We get one of the best pickleball complexes in the commonwealth of Massachusetts.”
The Nelson Pickleball Courts can be found at 60 Lyman St. in Westborough. For directions or any questions, especially regarding borrowing equipment, contact the library at (508)-366-3050 or email [email protected].