William Dale
Published online May 20, 2026, at www.pontiacjournal.com.
FORT-COULONGE — The rhythmic sound of paddles echoed through the Centre des Loisirs des Draveurs, May 9, as the community gathered for a pickleball workshop. From 9 am to 3 pm, the arena floor was transformed into six courts, marking a major push to establish the sport as a summer staple in the Pontiac. Organized by local players in collaboration with arena representatives, the event served as both a training ground for beginners and a reunion for seasoned enthusiasts.
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong. Played on a smaller court with a plastic ball and paddles, the game can be enjoyed as singles or doubles. Players serve underhand diagonally across the court, and points can only be scored by the serving team. One unique rule is the “kitchen,” or non-volley zone near the net, where players cannot hit the ball out of the air. Games are typically played to 11 points.
Ginette Adam, a key organizer and player at the event, explained the goal is to create a sustainable group that grows together. “The event was for regular players to play, and for those new to the game, experienced players like Pattie Cote were on hand to provide formal training on the fundamentals, including how to start a match and the basic rules of the court.”
Adam noted that while most local participants play for fun, the competition can get serious. A regional network allows players to travel between towns to compete.
To manage the growing interest in the sport, organizers encourage players to use “PlayTime Scheduler,” a dedicated app used throughout the Pontiac area, including Shawville, Chapeau, Otter Lake, and Campbell’s Bay. It allows users to see who is playing and when, helping to manage court capacity as the group expands. This digital approach ensures players from across the region can find a game anywhere they go.
Beyond the physical benefits of the game, the workshop had a financial mission. While the special all-day workshop was priced at $10, regular two-hour sessions throughout the summer are expected to cost between $5 and $7. These funds are slated to go directly back into the arena.
Photo – Pattie Cote prepares to return the ball during a pickleball session at the Centre des Loisirs des Draveurs in Fort-Coulonge May 9. The sport has surged in popularity across the Pontiac this spring, drawing regular crowds to local courts. (WD)