Within the gates of Reynolds Lake Oconee is a committed community who share a love for one of the country’s fastest growing sports, Pickleball. They gather each Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday to play at The Landing courts, located in walking distance from the clubhouse and pool.
What started as a small group of players, with often just enough people for a four-person match, has grown to a community of over 60, with more than 20 people showing up to play each day.
Betsy Torrence, who has been playing since the courses were built at The Landing in 2015, attributes the popularity of the sport to both the ease and friendliness of the game.
“Pickleball is a very social game,” says Betsy. “It is also great exercise even for those who have never played.”
Betsy describes Pickleball as a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. The paddle sport is played on a smaller court than tennis and requires only an underhand serve, which makes it perfect for players of all ages and skill levels.
Betsy’s husband, Sam, a life-long tennis player, discovered Pickleball following a knee injury and quickly fell in love.
“When I hurt my knee, Pickleball quickly became a good supplement to tennis,” says Sam. “It is easier on the knees and shoulders and it is a lot of fun!”
The game is played two versus two and rotates players at the end of each match. This allows each participant to meet someone new nearly every time they play.
“Pickleball has really caught on in our Reynolds community,” says Betsy, “I love coming to play and knowing that I am going to get a good workout, see my friends, and meet even more of my neighbors.”
