Calling all badminton and pickleball players.
Delta is offering drop-in sessions for the two sports and is encouraging new players to give them a shot.
"These programs are available to all and we encourage new people to come out and try it," says Kelly Wilson, recreation program co-ordinator with Delta Parks, Recreation and Culture.
Sessions take place at the Ladner Community Centre and at the new gym at the South Delta Recreation Centre in Tsawwassen.
The gym opened in September in the space previously occupied by Delta Gymnastics, which has moved to the new Delta Sport Development Centre in Ladner.
Badminton player Karsten Holmsen says with the South Delta Recreation Centre gym's four courts (two more than the Ladner Community Centre), there could be more room for coaching and training.
He says the current group has a real mixture of players in terms of skill level.
"We welcome any new players," he says.
Pickleball player Bobbi Blair echoes that comment, noting all skill levels would be welcomed, first timers in particular.
"We'd love to have beginners. That's the only way you make the game grow," she says.
Pickleball is played with a paddle and a wiffle ball.
"It's almost like tennis on a badminton court with a low net," says Bernie Vanengelsdorp, who's been playing for about five years.
He says he enjoys the exercise as well as the teamwork aspect of the game while playing doubles.
Drop-in costs for badminton and pickleball are $5.75 for adults and $4 for seniors and youth.
For more information visit www.corp.delta.bc.ca. Schedule:
Badminton:
. Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon at Ladner Community Centre
. Thursdays from 9: 15 a.m. to noon and 8 to 10 p.m. at South Delta Recreation Centre Pickleball:
. Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 5: 30 p.m. at the Ladner Community Centre
. Monday and Wednesday from 12: 45 to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 1: 30 to 3 p.m. at the South Delta Recreation Centre
