Retired coach aims to spread love of pickleball
EL PASO, Texas -- Pickleball - the sport with the funny name that has nothing to do with pickles - is gaining popularity in the Borderland. That's due in part to a few local pioneers of the sport, one of whom is retired teacher and coach George Cortez. He's voluntarily teaching pickleball classes at "Get Lifted," a westside Crossfit gym. He says one of the best things about it is how quickly newbies can pick up the game.
"I have so much fun teaching all these Crossfit athletes. They like to come in and work out hard, showing them how physical this is, and it's a great calorie burner," Cortez says.
Since 1991, Cortez has introduced people of all ages to the sport, and though he's focusing on getting a younger demographic involved, it's appropriate for every age.
"I think there's an instinct to be physical for all of us, and this game provides that. It's a challenge, it's a fun game to play, and these people like to be involved in competitive play," he adds.
There are about a dozen places in town to try pickleball - some offer tournaments, with new sites on the way, including Ascarate Park and the upper valley. To learn more, go to pickleballelpaso.com.
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