To further embrace the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., the YMCA of Greenwich is offering weekly pickleball beginner and intermediate training clinics. These opportunities allow the community to learn the rules of the sport, practice the basics and gain the confidence to jump into the Y’s weekly open games.
Jodi FitzGerald, the senior director of member experience at the YMCA of Greenwich, said these offerings — like most of the Y’s — reflect member interests.
“We consistently canvas different groups and have open table discussions with members so that we capture as much feedback from them as possible,” said FitzGerald. “Putting that feedback into action helps retention, improves the member experience and terrific programs like pickleball attracts new members.”
Clinic Details and Success
Since starting the clinics, FitzGerald said the community response has been powerful, with each available time hitting the maximum number of possible participants. She said these clinics are a great feeder into private pickleball lessons provided by the Y which are available any day, any time.
YMCA of Greenwich first introduced just two clinics last fall, with one being for beginners and the other for intermediate players. The program is free for members, and non-members are welcome to join for a fee of $20.
Separated by skill and comfort level, beginner clinics are offering the first two Tuesdays of each month and intermediate classes take place the last two Tuesday of the month — all indoors at the Y’s gymnasium.
“Beginner clinics focus on fundamentals, rules and confidence-building skills,” said FitzGerald. “Intermediate clinics are held later in the month and help players refine technique, strategy and game play.”
Additional Benefits and Advice
FitzGerald said the Y now runs four pickleball tournaments annually due to the surge of interest in the sport in the community. “Members and non-members look forward to our themed tournaments and registration always fills up quickly,” she said. “This is another way to grow retention and get new people from our community into the YMCA of Greenwich.”
For other industry leaders who are considering embracing pickleball and maximizing community interest in the sport, FitzGerald said all it really takes is a dedicated person on staff who will carve out time and space for pickleball.
“Build it and they will come,” said Fitzgerald. “Pickleball is so popular that if you provide the opportunity and let people know about it, the program will shape itself before your eyes. Pickleball players are an articulate bunch. They will let you know if and how they want your program to grow.”
