Pickleball, badminton, table tennis … if you love activities involve a paddle or racquet, Saanich Parks and Recreation offers lots of ways to get active and have fun doing it!
While Saanich offers a wide variety of tennis programming from Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, plus programs with the Cedar Hill Squash Club, residents can also choose from a host of drop-in programs at its various recreation centres – programs you can access with your Saanich Access Pass.
While each sport is a little different, they’re all activities you can enjoy for a lifetime, and Saanich’s drop-in schedules reflect that. Whether it’s introducing skills to children and youth, creating a fun environment for families to get busy together, or showcasing the social, physical and mental benefits for older adults, there’s a lot happening at these drop-in sessions!
Accessibility is one of the biggest benefits of racquet sports. “All you need is a racquet or paddle and you can play anywhere you go,” says Nathan Bailey, racquet sports programmer for Saanich Recreation.
There’s also a sense of community players of all levels enjoy. “It can be social even though it’s not a team sport,” Bailey says.
Pickleball, a mash-up of tennis, badminton and table tennis, is the most-offered drop-in sport between Cedar Hill, Pearkes and Saanich Commonwealth Place, reflecting its popularity among those looking for a fun, social activity that’s a little less physically demanding than squash or tennis.
“Pickleball is the most accessible of the racquet sports,” Bailey says, noting that for those wanting to play outside in nicer weather, Saanich also has outdoor pickleball courts at Tolmie and McMinn parks. “It’s always played as doubles, so it’s a great way to meet other players and create a social bond.”
From a backyard favourite to fiercely competitive Olympic sport, badminton is another activity for all ages and experience levels. Drop-in sessions include both all-ages sessions and a Sunday family and youth drop-in.
Cedar Hill’s table tennis drop-ins offer a variety of sessions just for you: Family and youth sessions Monday; 16+ sessions Monday and Friday; 60+ sessions Wednesday and Thursday; and youth sessions Wednesday afternoons.
While tennis isn’t included in your Access Pass, Cedar Hill’s indoor courts let you play in comfort year-round. Book a court up to 48 hours in advance, and beginning in June, the indoor rate moves to just $10 as more people head outside.
Get your Access Pass today!
Your Saanich Access Pass offers 31 different drop-in activities weekly at four centres, including fitness, sports, swims and skates. Check out the activity calendars online, then buy your pass online or at any Saanich recreation centre. Find a good selection of passes to choose from, with something for every budget, including a monthly payment plan for some passes. Learn more at saanich.ca/recreation
