By Steffen Klenk
Early risers at the Ocean City pickleball court know that it is game on before many of us wake up. Teams begin to arrive well before the gates open at 7:30 in the morning. Players claim their spot in hopes of improving their game, or to claim victory. Most teammates end up playing a round or two before continuing on with their day.
Pickleball has been rising in popularity throughout our region for the last decade. Ocean City resident Don Hepner has been a longtime advocate of the sport, which he brought back after staying in Florida during the winter. He had discovered long-established pickleball clubs in Avalon, and was determined to bring a local club to Ocean City.
In 2011, the city had set up a temporary location for players to enjoy the game inside the Civic Center at 6th Street. Interim netting was used along with painters tape. Several years later, following Hurricane Sandy, games took shape at the tennis courts at 18th Street. In 2015, the city approved four new courts to be built on the grounds of Ocean City Intermediate School.
In recent years, the sport has seen exponential growth. Last year, at the height of the pandemic, many residents turned to the sport as an outlet to get some much-needed exercise. In 2020 alone, Ocean City Pickleball Club noted a membership of over 400 players. This year, that number has doubled to over 800 people.
For newcomers, pickleball is a singles and doubles game that is traditionally played on a 20 x 44 court, similar in size to a badminton court and smaller than a regulation tennis court. The ball is served on a diagonal over a 36” regulation net. Players must let the ball bounce at least once prior to volleying and cannot come within 7’ of the net. The first side to score eleven points and lead by two points wins.
With the increased popularity in the sport, shop owners are also seeing the high demand. Landing Creek Pickleball, located inside Pessano’s Variety Store in Ocean City, has been open since last year. The store offers the most extensive line of equipment, from paddles to balls, grips, covers, even the latest apparel. Owner Andrew Pessano opened the store last year as an online retailer, but quickly saw a need to open in-person. “This was filling a need where people could come and see the inventory.”
The right equipment is essential to stay on top of an athlete’s game. As part of the in-person shopping experience, players can sign out demos to try out the paddles and see which paddle is best suited for them. Those who have interest in learning the sport can sign up for private lessons. Lessons are offered one-on-one by a certified PPR instructor (Professional Pickleball Registry).
According to Pessano, the name Landing Creek comes from Mays Landing Creek. “I have a court in my front yard; I would play with my buddies and say “We’re meeting at the creek.”
On a professional level, the sport of pickleball has gained momentum in recent years. The Pro Pickleball Association and Association of Pickleball Professionals host national tours and championships throughout the country, where the most seasoned of players compete for top honors. As for international recognition, Don King has a bold claim. “It may end up in the Olympics.” While it is likely the sport won’t be added to the Olympic roster just yet, there is a major push to grow pickleball internationally.
The Ocean City Pickleball courts are open daily from 7:30am until Sunset. Interested players can pay $60 for a seasonal pass or $40 for up to ten games. Weekly and daily passes are also available for a small fee. The pickleball season runs until October 30th.
Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.
