Pickleball Brings Fun and Friendships at Tallgrass Creek

At Tallgrass Creek, an Erickson Senior Living community in Overland Park, Kans., pickleball is a popular pastime that keeps residents moving and smiling.

Open play and beginner sessions are held throughout the week at the community's indoor court, drawing a mix of experienced players and novices alike.

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"Our residents love pickleball," says Fitness Coordinator Camin Bell. "It's fun, it's active, and it gives people a reason to come together."

Easy to start

Open play is always exciting--residents simply show up and rotate onto the court when they're ready. Men and women play side by side, and everyone advances at their own pace.

Dedicated beginner sessions offer residents a chance to learn the rules, practice basic skills, and build confidence.

Jim Gerlt hadn't played pickleball until he moved to Tallgrass Creek.

"Seeing the indoor court and walking past it every day made me curious," says Jim, recalling that the court's atmosphere appeared to be very lively. "I decided to give it a try, and I was hooked!"

He adds, "Everyone is a beginner at first. We all try to help others learn how to play."

Ron Olson had also never played pickleball before becoming a resident. Drawing on his background in tennis, he decided to step out on the court.

"Anyone with even a fleeting interest should come out and try it," says Ron. "There's a range of experiences, and I really enjoy that diversity. It's a very rewarding activity for our age group."

A good workout

Similar to tennis, players stand on opposite sides of a court and hit a plastic ball back and forth with hard paddles.

"But pickleball has a more relaxed pace," notes Bell. "The quick movements and steady pacing make it an ideal way to stay active without feeling overwhelmed."

For Jim, who plays four days a week, the sport is a great workout. "You get a lot of steps in without even realizing it," he says.

Ron agrees, saying, "It certainly provides exercise and movement, which are important at our ages."

Forming friendships

But ask any pickleball player at Tallgrass Creek what they enjoy most, and the answer often goes beyond cordial competition. The indoor court has become a place where friendships form naturally, bringing together residents from different residence buildings and backgrounds.

"When you move in, you tend to get to know the people on your floor or in your building," Ron says.

"Pickleball brings together people from all over campus. It's very social! You see the same people regularly, you learn what's going on in their lives, and real friendships develop."

"Pickleball is a game where you make hard shots but often miss the easiest," Jim adds, with a smile. "We all laugh with one another and support one another. Laughter is good for the spirit. The players make it enjoyable."

Expanding connections

These connections don't stop when the game ends. Players frequently run into one another at on-site restaurants, campus events, or while strolling along campus walkways.

"One of the reasons we moved here was to expand our group of friends," says Ron, who moved to Tallgrass Creek with his wife, Suzan. "I was hopeful that would happen, and it certainly has."

More than a game

At Tallgrass Creek, pickleball is more than just a sport--it's a reflection of the community's vibrant, social lifestyle. The game creates daily opportunities for movement and conversation, helping residents feel engaged.

"The connections make it more enjoyable," Ron says. "You develop friendships, you see people you know around campus, and you share positive experiences together."

"If you've ever played badminton, table tennis, racquetball, or tennis, you'll probably enjoy pickleball," Jim explains. "And even if you haven't, it's worth giving it a try! It's a great way to connect."

With paddles in hand and smiles on their faces, residents like Ron and Jim prove that staying active and having fun can happen at the same time.

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Julia Collins