77 year old, Lowell, from Bethesda, MD discovered Pickleball at 75, and now plays every day! Learn more about what Lowell loves about the game and how it keeps him active:
Tells US about YOU:
Retired last year after 51 years in education as a teacher, coach, and athletic
director. I played football, basketball, and baseball in college. I learned to play golf and tennis after college. I found myself a widower after 45 years of marriage. I have a daughter and two granddaughters living nearby. My entire family is very athletic.
How long have you been playing Pickleball? How often do you play?
I started playing pickleball in September, 2020. Since retiring in July 2021, I try to play pickleball everyday. I prefer to play only outdoors year round. Temperature does not bother me. (I was raised in Minnesota.) Only strong winds, rain, or snow prevent me from playing. I generally play 2-3 hrs each day on public courts.
Tell us about the first time you heard the term “Pickleball.”
I am one of 7 children raised in Minnesota. My sister in Minneapolis told me about pickleball 3 years ago. I was playing tennis then, so yes, I was skeptical.
How long after you heard about Pickleball, did you hit the court for the first time?
I played with my sister once or twice a few years ago. When Covid arrived in 2020, the only sporting activities open for me were golf and pickleball (as they took place outdoors).
Is Pickleball a family affair?
I live alone now, but my son-in-law has a keen interest in playing more. My daughter has played with me, and I will soon give beginning lessons to my granddaughter(9).
My sister plays regularly in Minnesota and in Arizona (her winter home).
One of the great things about pickleball is that I never have a prearranged match. I just show up and play. Men/women/young/ old mixed.....It’s a wonderful social environment.
What is your favorite Selkirk Paddle?
The Vanguard Invikta 2.0 midweight
How do YOU define your style of play?
Currently, I am a 3.0-3.5 player. I started with a beginner wood paddle ($25) and quickly learned that the type of paddle can make a big difference in my game. The most obvious difference for me is being near the kitchen and defending a hard drive.
My current paddle has enough ‘life’ to get the ball over the net with little input from me. Yeah!!
Best/favorite meal after a few games?
Hamburger with fries!
What is your favorite thing about Pickleball?
Easy to learn at all age levels. I started playing at 75 and was excited to learn a new sport and become competitive. I don’t need a partner. Just show up and play!
I play with an equal number of men and women. Now that I am retired and a widower, pickleball is great for socialization. It is also great for balance/footwork/ eye to hand coordination.
