More Than Just a Game
Pickleball Builds Community in the Peace Region
Whether you’re looking to stay active, meet new people or simply try something different, the Mighty Peace Pickleball Club (MPPC) is proving that one of Canada’s fastest-growing sports has found a home right here in the Peace Region.
“For a couple hours, you’re completely focused on the game,” said MPPC President Kris Kennedy. “Everything else just fades into the background.”
For Kennedy, 50, it’s about more than pickleball—it’s about community.
What started with just 29 members, has grown into a thriving club of 94 players. Members range in age from 23 to 79, and travel from Manning, Grimshaw, Falher, Valleyview and surrounding communities to play each week.
Pickleball appeals to a wide range of ages and abilities, so some enjoy recreational play close to home while others travel throughout Alberta to compete in tournaments. But, whether picking up a paddle for the first time, or chasing a spot at the provincial or national level, Kennedy says there’s a place for everyone at Mighty Peace Pickleball Club.
The club’s story began in 2019 when local resident Barry Heinen introduced pickleball to a handful of friends after he discovered the sport while wintering in Yuma.
“He bought us some paddles, and we went out and played one night. We hated it because we weren’t very good,” said Kennedy. “One game quickly turned into another. Now we’re all addicted.”
The enthusiasm helped build one of Northern Alberta’s strongest pickleball communities.
This summer, Kennedy and Peace River residents Aireen Gorman, 44, and Nicole Walisser, 57, will represent Alberta at the IG Wealth Management National Championships in Toronto.
According to Kennedy, only 16 players are chosen from across the province, which includes 41 sanctioned clubs and more than 8,000 registered players.
“It is a huge honour,” said Kennedy. “Some clubs have hundreds of members and don’t get anybody selected. We have three.”
Despite competing against players from clubs with dedicated facilities and professional coaching, Kennedy believes MPPC’s greatest strength is its people.
“We just have each other,” said Kennedy. “We try to make each other better. If I make you better, you make me better.”
This philosophy has created a welcoming club where everyone has an opportunity to learn, improve and enjoy the game together.
“When we go to tournaments, people are like, ‘Holy, Peace River again,’” said Kennedy. “I’ve probably met 500 people across the province, and some of them have become my best friends.”
Curious about playing pickleball? Kennedy says the best place to start isn’t by purchasing a membership.
“I tell people, don’t join the club right away,” said Kennedy. “Go to a drop-in first. Give it a try.”
The Town of Peace River offers public drop-in sessions at the Baytex Energy Centre, giving newcomers an opportunity to learn the game before joining the club. Once players are ready, MPPC offers organized play.
MPPC is designed to make newcomers feel comfortable from day one.
“We have a new members group,” said Kennedy. “You don’t even have to know how to play. People start together and work their way into the other groups.”
During the summer months, players also enjoy the outdoor courts in Lower West Peace, making it easy to get outside and enjoy the sport whenever the weather cooperates. And, many other communities in the region have outdoor courts and regular drop-in schedules, as well. So, getting started is simple.
“You just need a paddle, a ball and a pair of running shoes,” said Kennedy.
MPPC welcomes players of all skill levels and operates year-round. The winter season runs from October 1 through April 30, while the summer season runs from May 1 through September 30.
“Anybody who tries pickleball is probably going to love it,” said Kennedy. “The only problem is you might get addicted to it.”
Kennedy is quick to recognize the people who have helped make MPPC what it is today.
“If it wasn’t for the Town of Peace River and the Baytex Energy Centre, we wouldn’t be able to compete at the highest level and represent Peace River on the national stage,” said Kennedy.
And, Kennedy is equally grateful for the people who continue to make the club a success.
“I’m so proud of our members,” said Kennedy. “When we see each other around town, it’s like we’re family.”
For current playing schedules, membership information and upcoming events, visit the Mighty Peace Pickleball Club on Facebook.
By Laura Hanna
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