In the past week, I have had some free time and been
playing quite a bit of Pickleball. I understand,
when you are participating in rec sports you are going to get all different
levels of play.
I have no problem playing with beginners, intermediate
(my level), advanced, or even pro players.
In fact, I enjoy playing with people with a little higher skill levels,
it challenges me to be better. I’m happy to play with beginners, as
well. I was a beginner once. We need to include them in higher levels of
play to challenge them too.
The issue I have had recently is that some people take
rec sports too seriously.
The other night I was playing with a guy I had never
met. We were getting beat by two guys I
have played with before. They are better
than I am, but I’ve beat them before. It’s
not impossible. All four players were
making their share of good shots and poor shots. When I miss-hit a ball, or hit it into the
net, I usually chuckle. I mean whattaya
gonna do? Get mad about it? Nah.
My partner turns to me and says, “I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself, but
I’d like to beat these guys.” I thought
that was pretty bold to say to a total stranger. Yeah, we lost and he wasn’t happy. Seriously?
It’s just a game!
Another day, I was playing with 2 people I knew, and one
I didn’t. Well, this guy was a “slammer.” Every time he hit the ball it was as hard and
fast as he could make it, right at one of his opponents. After he did that at me a few times, I was
able to get back a few short angle shots that he couldn’t get to. (Slam them at
ME will ya?!) So then he started
slamming them at my partner. She turned
away every time and just tried to get out of the way. Yeah, we lost and he was very proud of himself. Seriously?
It’s just a game!
Kids rec sports?
Oh, don’t even get me started about how obnoxious some parents can be
over KIDS games.
Competitive nature?
Sure I like to win, but I’m not a rude, overly zealous player. It’s not really fun to play with people who
take themselves, or the game, too seriously.
I suppose they may consider me rude when I remind them, “We’re not
getting paid the big bucks. It’s just a
game.”
If these players sound like you, it’s time to relax and
remember… it’s recreational sports, it’s supposed to be fun.
Play to win, but more importantly… enjoy yourself. It’s just a game.
