How Pickleball Became a Passion and a Community for All Ages

After retiring from her long-haul career with British Airways, Viv Rochford was looking for a fun, low-impact way to stay active and maintain her well-being. Having enjoyed table tennis for a few years, she felt ready for something more dynamic. She wanted something that offered movement and sociability without putting too much strain on her joints. That’s when she discovered pickleball. What began as a curious dabble quickly evolved into a full-blown passion. Viv now runs her local group, introducing newcomers to the joys of the game and fostering a warm, inclusive sporting community.

Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played on a smaller court than tennis, players use solid paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball over the net in either singles or doubles matches. One of the reasons behind its rapid rise in popularity, particularly among older adults, is that it’s easy to pick up, gentle on the body, and offers both a great workout and a good laugh. With its emphasis on technique and positioning over raw power, it encourages strategic play without requiring peak physical fitness. “It’s a great workout without putting too much strain on your hips, knees, or ankles,” Viv explained. “That’s one of the reasons it appeals to so many people, including those who might not normally consider themselves sporty.”

Although Viv didn’t come from a sporting background, she took to pickleball with enthusiasm and quickly saw the benefits it brought, not just physically but mentally and socially too. The welcoming atmosphere of the game was one of the biggest draws. “Pickleball offers something for everybody, no matter your age or ability,” she said. Her group is a true reflection of this, with participants ranging from young teenagers to those in their seventies. 

Determined to provide a safe and supportive environment for beginners, Viv earned her Pickleball England Leaders Certificate. This gave her the skills and confidence to introduce new players to the sport’s rules and etiquette. “I started a group of beginners and we’ve all found it addictive,” she shared. “It’s been so rewarding to see each player improve, gain confidence, and fall in love with the game. I now run tailored sessions for complete beginners, focusing on fun and steady progression.”

Viv’s efforts have sparked a ripple effect in the local area. Several of her regular players have become so passionate about pickleball that they’ve gone on to join more advanced clubs and even enter local competitions. “Some of my players are competitive and they’ll stay with me but also go on to enter tournaments and play with other groups,” she said proudly. “But what touches me most is that they still come back to my sessions. Not because they need to, but because they enjoy the people, the energy, and the pure joy of the game. It’s not all about winning. It’s about having fun and being part of something bigger.”