Living in Naples, Florida, Ken is fortunate to have the USOP National Pickleball Center just down the road from his home. Therefore, he has a perfect opportunity to get involved in the game, and to have access to experts like Pat Shea.Pat is a professionally-certified pickleball instructor and coach who, with about seven years of experience, could be considered a veteran, given that it's a sport that's only really become widely familiar and popular since about 2015. Although, pickleball does in fact date back to 1965, when it was invented on Bainbridge Island, WA.In our episode today, Pat teaches us the basics of pickleball, its social aspects, and explains the sport's rising popularity, particularly in the United States, but also increasingly worldwide.Pat shares insights into the game's origins, rules, court terminology, and how beginners - especially seniors - can start playing. He also discusses the professional side of pickleball, including the US Open, potential earnings, and the investment and technical development that is pouring in. In fact, we are releasing this episode the exact same week as the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships are taking place at the NPC in Naples, April 26 to May 3, 2025. You can follow along with the matches live on their website, or catch the highlights on YouTube afterwards.Pickleball continues to be a fast-rising sport, but the real takeaway from our conversation today is its social aspect. For people looking for a new activity, a sport that is not too intense but still a good workout, that gets you out of the house and into a warm, welcoming community, consider looking into your local pickleball scene. You've probably heard about it already!USOP National Pickleball Center, Naples, FL2025 US Open of Pickleball, April 26 - May 3, live streamingThe Pickleball Channel on YouTube, US Open highlights---Reach out to the show by visiting our website,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and send me your thoughts and suggestions at [email protected].

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