The rise of pickleball: Oglethorpe County embraces sport

Crawford’s Karen Patman prepares to hit the ball as her partner Elaine McGarity, of Winterville, watches during a match at the Oglethorpe County Rec Center. They are two of a regular group of 16 players who play the fast-growing sport. (Photo/Molly Linder)
Crawford’s Karen Patman prepares to hit the ball as her partner Elaine McGarity, of Winterville, watches during a match at the Oglethorpe County Rec Center. They are two of a regular group of 16 players who play the fast-growing sport. (Photo/Molly Linder)

The pickleball league meets at 9 a.m. Monday and Thursday, and on Tuesday after line dancing class at the Oglethorpe County Rec Department. It is free to join.

 

Watch the pickleball team teach a r…