OVERVIEW: 

As spring comes around the corner, hosting a Pickleball program is a way to bring the community together, get outdoors, and have a discussion about Shmirat HaGuf, the value of exercise.

MATERIALS:

• Reserved Pickleball Court 
• Pickleball equipment 
• Text Sheet on Jewish and Pickleball 

PROGRAM OUTLINE (90 minutes):

• Program starts with a discussion of the origins of Pickleball and an overview of the rules (15 minutes) 
• Depending on the number of courts, groups will break into play. Can swap out partners, change teams after 20 minutes, etc. (1 hour) 
• At the conclusion of the games, bring everyone back together for a discussion about Shmirat HaGuf and the value of exercise. See attached sheet for texts and questions.
• A healthy snack or beverage is another great way to conclude this program.

Suggestions for Program: 

• Apply for a Jewish Learning or Jewish Holiday and Culture grant to help reserve courts, purchase equipment for those that don’t have their own, and/or purchase healthy snacks for the end. 
• Many JCC’s and schools have pickleball courts that you could partner with to reduce the costs. They could also rental equipment. 
• Arrange teams randomly so that participants get to know new people.