Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Indian Land, SC School Designates Pickleball Week

Submited by Frank Kinder
Ambassador, Indian Land, SC

Retired from a career in law enforcement USAPA member and pickleball enthusiast, Luis Lopez is also a volunteer mentor (tutor) for Indian Land Middle School (ILMS) students in Indian Land, SC. During his time at the school, Luis has constantly spoken about pickleball and how it would be a great avenue for the students to be actively involved in physical education. He was put in contact with Ms. Jessica Hardy, Physical Education Instructor. She and fellow Physical Education teacher, Kevin Mager expressed interest in implementing pickleball at ILMS.

After exchanging emails, Luis eagerly agreed to provide pickleball classes to the Middle School students. The teachers decided to designate the entire week of October 24th -28th, 2011 for pickleball. Two classes of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders will meet every day for instruction. Luis invited Ms. Hardy and Mr. Mager to Sun City Carolina Lakes (SCCL) for a demonstration and instruction prior to the classes being held.

Several members of the SCCL Pickleball Club volunteered to help Luis with this special community outreach project. Thanks to a grant and donations from the SCCL Club, Luis was able to assist in acquiring much needed equipment for the school’s program. As a result of Luis’ passion for the game--and his persuasive persona--the school is now planning to implement pickleball on a regular basis as part of the physical education curriculum. Kudos, Luis!

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