POP participants (photo by Rob Smith)
Kathie Marshall
POP Tennis, what is it? Why play POP Tennis? Just how does it differ from regular tennis or pickleball? You may think it is a new sport, but POP Tennis is a century old paddle sport that until recently was called “paddle tennis.” It was rebranded as POP Tennis in 2015.
POP Tennis is a scaled-down version of Tennis. The scoring is the same but is played on smaller courts with shorter, solid paddles and lower compression tennis balls, while Pickleball uses a smaller, plastic ball with holes, a shortened court, and unique scoring and rules.
POP also feels like pickleball because the court is smaller than the standard tennis court and is easy to learn and play for people of all ages. It also utilizes the underhand serve that makes it easier for senior players with shoulder problems. However, POP Tennis does away with something that can frustrate neophyte pickleball players: namely, the “no volley zone.” In POP Tennis, there is no “kitchen line” and volleys can be hit anywhere on the court.
On March 10, the SaddleBrooke Ranch Tennis Association (SBRTA) held a Pizza and POP Tennis event. Chris Madsen, the SBRTA Tennis and POP tennis pro, conducted a POP Tennis clinic for 21 enthusiastic players of all levels, ranging from first–timers to the more advanced players. He divided players into three groups and instructed beginners on the first court, teaching them the basics of the game. On the second court, Chris conducted drills and games to develop specific POP skills and on court three, he provided the advanced players with tips on doubles strategy, along with friendly competitive play. Post clinic, participants enjoyed an after-party complete with pizza and socializing with old and new friends. Thanks to Chris and the SBRTA event planning committee, the Pizza and POP clinic was informative and enjoyed by all. Tina Kohl, clinic participant, echoed the enthusiasm of the group by saying, “We can’t wait to put these new skills to work on the courts!”
Thanks to the growing popularity of POP within SBRTA, it was essential to find a POP Tennis chair to coordinate court scheduling, skills training, and events. SBRTA is proud to announce that Jan Storey has agreed to be the POP Tennis chair. She has many great ideas and enthusiasm for POP. Jan comes to SBRTA POP with tennis experience and a love of the game. She recommends trying it. “POP Tennis brings all the joy of tennis with a fun, low-impact twist. It’s competitive, social, and accessible—perfect for keeping us moving and connected at any age.”
So, if you like racquet sports and want to try something new, check out POP Tennis. POP is hot!
Training News: The Training and Development committee is offering two new tennis clinics: Fit & Hit and Competitive Doubles Team Tennis Skills Training led by Ginger Edwards Buetow. Many thanks to Ginger, Wayne Watkins and the Training and Development committee for volunteering their skills and expertise.