On February 18, the brand-new pickleball courts located in phase-1 basketball court officially opened to DKU community and held the first workshop with the support of the Operations Office. More than 60 enthusiastic participants gathered to learn and experience the sport, making the kickoff event a resounding success.
From now on, you can borrow paddles and pickleballs at the Sports Complex front desk during its operating hours: weekdays from 7 AM to 9 PM and weekends from 10 AM to 3 PM.
On weekday evenings, the pickleball court will be illuminated, and the lights will turn off at 9:15 PM. On weekends, please call 36657111 before 8 PM at least 30 minutes in advance to request lighting.
The opening ceremony took place with Mr. Shen Jianxin, Manager of Sports Affairs Division of Kunshan Bureau of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Radio & Television. and Mr. Huang Yuchen, head of the Kunshan Pickleball Association and coach for the China Tennis Association’s pickleball program, attending.
Director Shen noted that Kunshan has been advancing pickleball development from schools to universities, with plans for national tournaments and other competitions to further promote the sport. The Kunshan Pickleball Association wishes the DKU Pickleball program and Sports Department continued success.
Athletics Director of DKU, Zarko highlighted the successful collaboration between the Operations team, the Kunshan Bureau of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, and the Kunshan Pickleball Association in completing the pickleball court, aimed at energizing the DKU community.
“We’re excited that DKU now has a pickleball court! Plus, you can borrow paddles for free at the Sports Complex front desk. Come and enjoy the fun and health benefits of pickleball together!” Peter, Assistant Director of Athletics, stated.
Under the guidance of Johnnie Walker, a Level 2 IPTPA-certified instructor familiar with the appealing sport, participants were able to learn basic skills for this unique sport, smoothly holding their paddle managing to serve and receive. Participants were also randomly distributed into several teams for playing, which encouraged their social interaction and fostered teamwork.
“Pickleball is a creative but a relatively niche sport. One night of trying is enough to show its attraction. Although I am not yet proficient, I believe it worths promoting and sharing with a wider range of audiences and participants”, said Maocheng Xiao, from the Class of 2028.
Pickleball, a combination of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is highly populated for being accessible, easy to pick up, and offering a fun, full-body workout. By providing a perfect balance of exercise and enjoyment, it undoubtably enhances students’ extracurricular activities and acts as a way to ease stress.
If you missed the first workshop event, that’s totally fine, you’re welcome to try this amazing sport. Whether you are a beginner or have some knowledge, it is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and have fun. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this growing community!
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