The YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) unveiled its new indoor pickleball courts at the West Chester Area YMCA, 605 Airport Road, West Chester, on April 26 at noon during its First Serve Pickleball Court Opening Ceremony. Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and ping-pong. It can be played by people of all ages and abilities.

At the ceremony, Denise Day, president and CEO of YGBW, and Laura Schofield-Pierson, executive director of the West Chester Area YMCA, both offered remarks, followed by a countdown to the first official serve. YGBW members then took to the courts to play with staff providing demonstrations on how to play pickleball.

These are the first of many new pickleball courts - both indoor and outdoor - that YGBW is installing in seven of its Chester County branches. Over the next few months, official outdoor pickleball courts will be installed at the Jennersville YMCA, Kennett Area YMCA and Upper Main Line YMCA, while the outdoor courts at the Brandywine YMCA will be renovated. Additionally, at the Brandywine YMCA, Jennersville YMCA, Kennett Area YMCA, Lionville Community YMCA and Oscar Lasko YMCA, the gymnasium floors are being resurfaced to create indoor pickleball courts with official court markings and color-coded kitchens. With both indoor and outdoor courts, members will be able to play year-round.

Michelle Smith, YGBW's pickleball coordinator, noted that the organization is expanding its pickleball offerings with lessons, classes, leagues, clinics and more.

YGBW currently offers open pickleball play at multiple branches for its members, and no equipment or prior experience is required. Paddles are available for use, and a rotation system is used to ensure everyone is welcome to play. To learn more, visit http://www.ymcagbw.org.