As the scorching summer sun beats down, the Woodbridge Pickleball Club (WPC) is ready to serve up some pickleball action for new members in Prince William County.
"We're not a cult or anything, but we do want to spread the joy of pickleball to as many people as possible," said a club spokesperson. "And if they want to join and pay us money, even better!"
Pickleball, the fastest-growing (and most annoying, according to some polls) sport in the US, is a mix of tennis, ping pong, and a healthy dose of competitiveness. It has exploded in popularity during the COVID pandemic, as people look for new ways to burn off pent-up energy and frustration.
In March 2021, WPC was officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation by the Commonwealth of Virginia, which means more pickleball courts for everyone in the county.
"We love our 'pickleheads’ and their unique brand of enthusiasm," said Seth Hendler-Voss, the director of the county's Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. "I was even invited to the funeral of a 4.0 pickleball player who was buried with his paddle. Talk about dedication!"