Pickleballers return to action with new safety measures

The pent-up demand to play pickleball in Vernon comes to an end soon.

After two months without the sport due to Covid-19, the Okanagan Wealth Advisors Pickleball Complex at Marshall Field (6891 Okanagan Landing Road) will reopen Friday (May 15).

The Vernon Pickleball Association (VPA) in conjunction with Greater Vernon Recreation and Pickleball BC have been working to ensure the courts re-opening will align with the BC Ministry of Health guidelines.

“As a large association, we have a civic responsibility to do our part within the framework of the provincial plans to keep us all healthy and as safe as possible,” said Anne Longley, publicity for VPA.

Longley said the biggest change is there can be no more than 50 people at the outdoor courts at one time.

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“For this to occur there will be no opportunities for drop in play without a reservation. Everyone wanting to play pickleball at the OWA Pickleball Complex will have to make a court reservation for a two-hour time slot using the on-line Sign Up Genius system. Go to www.vernonpickleball.com to find the link.”

The policy applies to VPA members as well as the general public.

“Public players are welcome to reserve time during all afternoons and weekend evenings. When back on the courts we will all have to embrace the rules necessary for Covid-Cautious Pickleball and share the load of keeping our levels of social interactions in check,” commented Longley.

Other changes to ensure the safest playing environment include the following measures:

• Entry to the courts will be from the north side gates and exit from the south side
• The centre walkway traffic should be kept to a minimum with no sports bags left there and no congregating before or after games.
• Arrive no more than 10 minutes prior to your reservation time and wait at the north side practice court for your assigned court to clear before proceeding to your court.
• Each player should use their own ball and keep it with them throughout the game. Limit touching other player’s equipment including paddles and balls.
• Limit your collective ‘playing circles of contact’ to no more than 4 players per court
• Most importantly, try to always play with the same partner, preferably a partner from your household.
• Have fun!

The Vernon Pickleball Association is a non-profit society offering both recreational and competitive pickleball play year-round.

For more information on how to join, check out the VPA webpage at https://www.vernonpickleball.com/ or email vernonpickleball@gmail.com.