Westfield Technical Academy is paving the way for high school varsity pickleball in Massachusetts. Athletic coordinator, Kyle Dulude, announced that the Tigers will be part of a pilot program organized by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association to introduce the sport to high school athletes.
Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has been gaining popularity across the country in recent years. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball on a court with a low net, making it accessible to people of all ages and skill levels.
Westfield Tech is one of four high school sports programs in Western Massachusetts chosen to participate in the pilot program. This initiative could potentially lead to the official recognition of pickleball as a varsity sport in Massachusetts high schools.
Dulude highlighted the benefits of introducing pickleball to students, including its low cost, minimal space requirements, and opportunities for social interaction and physical activity. The sport also offers a new and exciting challenge for student-athletes looking to expand their athletic horizons.
As the program progresses, Westfield Tech student-athletes will have the opportunity to compete against other schools in organized pickleball matches. The success and reception of the pilot program will ultimately determine whether pickleball becomes a sanctioned varsity sport in Massachusetts.
Overall, Westfield Technical Academy’s participation in the pickleball pilot program represents an innovative and exciting development in high school sports, providing students with a unique opportunity to engage in a fun and competitive athletic experience.
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