People with Parkinson’s are about to experience the benefits of pickleball in Hertfordshire with the launch of some new sessions.
Murray Allan, the Hertfordshire County representative for Pickleball England, has been a driving force behind it, explaining: “Eighteen months ago, my 80-year-old brother, a passionate table tennis player for over six decades, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, forcing him to stop playing. His discovery of Parkinson’s table tennis at BATTS Club in Old Harlow was transformative, so attended a session. Observing the players, it was remarkable to see how their symptoms seemed to fade away during the game—with [few] visible tremors or balance issues.
“This experience led me to research the connection between Parkinson’s and sport, revealing successful Parkinson’s pickleball tournaments and vacations in the USA. Noting the absence of similar programs in the UK, I contacted Parkinson’s UK and proposed a Parkinson pickleball open day at my club in Hoddesdon. Parkinson’s UK enthusiastically supported the idea, offering sponsorship funding.”
He adds that although Parkinson’s of course does not disappear during exercise, players may feel as though it does, with the possibility of regular physical activity contributing towards slowing the disease’s progression.
Now a Level 1-qualified coach, Murray’s plan for Parkinson’s pickleball got a boost courtesy of Kirsty Jones of Everyone Active, who proposed applying for funding to expand Parkinson’s pickleball into St Albans, Stevenage, and North Herts leisure centres, which was signed off by Parkinson’s UK.
“The first sessions will begin on February 25th and will continue as long as there is interest,” says Murray, who hopes that other venues will offer similar sessions, and that those with other neurological diseases will also benefit from it. “More than just a game, these sessions will embrace the social side of sport, encouraging players to stay afterward for tea and cake. For many, pickleball is as much about community and connection as it is about competition — a true sport for everyone.”
Sessions will run at Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre on Mondays from 10.30am, Batchwood Golf and Sports Centre in St Albans on Mondays at 1pm, and North Herts Leisure Centre in Letchworth on Tuesdays from 11.30am.
