Wanna Play Pickleball? 

A program developed by Rabbi Shari Shamah, Jewish Life Specialist 

May 25 

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: 1.5 hrs  

• Program starts with a discussion of the origins of Pickleball and an overview of the rules (15 mins) 

• Depending on the number of courts, groups will break into play.  Can swap out partners, change teams after 20 minutes, etc. (1 hr) 

• 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.