Dink it at the Pickleball Classic

BY ALEX DRISCOLL

If you love pickleball and care about mental health, this is the perfect competition for you!

Pickleball has become a global phenomenon. It’s one of the fastest-growing pastimes in Australia, and the Northern Beaches is home to one of the country’s largest associations.

When Lifeline Northern Beaches was thinking of a fundraising idea, they saw potential in pickleball, a social sport that can be easily played by people of all ages and athletic abilities.

“It was one of my volunteers that suggested it,” Sarah Grattan, Lifeline Northern Beaches chief executive officer said. “And so the Pickleball Classic was born.”

While from the outside, a tournament of pickleball seems like a simple and effective way to raise money, there are deeper intentions behind it.

Speaking with Peninsula Living, Sarah highlighted some of the issues
that are driving the continuing mental health and suicide crisis in Australia. “Conflict, anxieties around the cost of living and loneliness are some things that are hurting people’s mental health,” Sarah says.

In fact, one of the most alarming statistics Sarah addressed was the fact that only 40% of people who take their own lives had sought treatment or counselling before doing so.

Connecting people to each other, and to the Lifeline service, can help those who are suffering with their mental health.

The Pickleball Classic provides an great opportunity for the community to connect. “I encourage everyone to get out there and try; your skill level doesn’t matter,” Sarah says.

Increased demand for a service like Lifeline means that the fund-raising aspect is still of high importance.

According to Sarah, it costs Lifeline $39 to answer a call, and with tens of thousands of calls a year taken on the Northern Beaches alone, it’s a significant cost to bear. Running counselling services, early intervention and community outreach programs also means that this volunteer organisation needs funds to exist. “The money you put towards registration or fund raising could directly improve or even save someone’s life,” Sarah emphasises.

In terms of the competition itself, you can enter into one of three divisions depending on skill level, with fun and participation the priority. Those who have played less than five times are recommended to enter the beginners division. Particpants who have played pickleball a few times or have experience playing other racket sports should enter intermediate; and experienced, serious players should register in the advanced division. All equipment will be provided, and if you raise just $78, you can become the proud owner of a limited edition t-shirt made for the occasion.

The WilloBees Pickleball Club is popular on Sydney’s North Shore

Those who cannot compete but still want to be involved can either donate, volunteer or simply come down to watch and support those who are playing.

Whether it be helping raise money to save lives, looking after your physical health for the benefit of your mental health, or simply getting outside and connecting with people, the inaugural Pickleball Classic is a great event to get involved with.