A few Rhode Island snowbirds are bringing their favorite pastime to Rhode Island. Seniors who winter in Florida would like to find a place in Warwick to play Pickleball.

Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. It is played using a paddle and a “Wiffle” type ball. The sport is played on a court that is about half the size of a tennis court. Ninety-five percent of the time, Pickleball is played as a doubles match.

Pickleball is popular among residential communities in Florida and Arizona. More and more recreational facilities in those places are offering it in their parks.  But when the Snowbirds return to Rhode Island there are not many places for them to play

Currently, a group plays in Cranston, but Warwick residents are trying to lure those players to play in Warwick. As of now the Warwick league consists of at least six players.

The sport can be played by all ages, but it is a particular favorite of seniors because of the relatively small court; they don’t have as much ground to cover.

The Warwick Parks and Recreation Department is attempting to see if there is any interest in playing or learning more about Pickleball. A group plays Monday mornings at 9:30 and they strongly encourage others to join.

They meet at the tennis courts behind the pool and ice rinks at the Mickey Stevens Sports Complex on Sandy Lane. They will be playing there this Monday, June 30 and ask those interested to come down and learn more about the sport. Mickey Stevens Sports Complex is located at 975 Sandy Lane, Warwick.

According to a player, if enough people show interest, Deputy Director Parks and Recreation Department Michael Rooney will dedicate two courts to Pickleball.

To learn more, inquirers can search “Pickleball” on the Internet and you will be introduced to a number of websites featuring the sport. If you would like to inquire more about playing Pickleball in Warwick, contact the Warwick Parks and Recreation Department at 738-2000.

Other areas in the New England area that are playing Pickleball include Cumberland, Lincoln, Narragansett, Cranston and Shutesbury, Mass.