The brand new Perry Pickleball League is up and running at the McCreary Community Building, and people of all ages and ability levels are encouraged to give it a try.

The program was initiated by City Council member Barb Wolling, who was looking for a fun and easy activity to get the community more active. She landed on pickleball, which she says is a combination of table tennis and badminton, played on a small court with large paddles and a wiffle ball. Perry City Administrator Sven Peterson says Wolling’s excitement for the activity has been infectious, and the league is gaining in popularity. However, Peterson emphasizes they are always looking for new players. “If you’ve played pickleball before, that’s great, show up and play! If you’ve never played pickleball in your life, that’s great, show up and play! I think they’re having a lot of fun out there, and it’s great to see especially City Council getting involved like this and spearheading this type of activity.”

Participation in the league is free for McCreary Center members, but there’s a $2 gym fee for non-members. Games are played Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9-11 a.m., and there is no preregistration required. All the equipment is provided, and players are encouraged to wear athletic clothes and shoes. To learn more about the Perry Pickleball League, contact Wolling at 515-423-2618.