Pickleball Takes Off in Springfield: EVPC & Willamalane Celebrate Growing Success of Monthly Classes

Pickleball continues its rapid rise across Lane County, and nowhere is that growth more evident than at the Bob Keefer Center, where the Emerald Valley Pickleball Club (EVPC) and Willamalane Park and Recreation District have teamed up to deliver one of the region’s most successful and accessible pickleball education programs.

Every month, EVPC instructors lead a full series of four one‑hour classes designed to welcome new players, build confidence, and help participants progress through the sport at their own pace. With three distinct levels—Pickleball 101, 102, and 103—the program has become a model for structured, supportive skill development.

A Pathway for Every Player

Pickleball 101: Learning the Game

The journey begins with Pickleball 101, a friendly and approachable introduction to the sport. Participants learn the essentials: how to keep score, understand boundary lines, serve, dink, and develop the basic skills needed to step onto the court with confidence. By the end of the four‑week session, new players are ready to play full games and enjoy the fast‑growing sport that has captured the hearts of millions.

Pickleball 102: Building Strategy and Control

For those ready to advance, Pickleball 102 deepens both technique and strategy. Players explore purposeful serving, effective dinking patterns, and the fundamentals of drive and drop shots. This level focuses on consistency, shot selection, and smart decision‑making—key ingredients for elevating recreational play.

Pickleball 103: Advanced Skills for Competitive Players

Designed for players rated 3.0 and above, Pickleball 103 brings a more competitive edge. Participants learn advanced serving techniques, cross‑court attack dinks, and refined drop‑shot execution. The curriculum also covers offensive and defensive positioning, court awareness, and tactical patterns used by high‑level players. It’s a challenging, energizing class for those eager to push their game further.

Instruction Rooted in Community

What sets these classes apart is the team‑teaching model. Each session is led by multiple EVPC instructors who demonstrate skills, run drills, and offer personalized coaching. This collaborative approach ensures that every participant receives attention, encouragement, and clear guidance.

The atmosphere is intentionally upbeat and welcoming. EVPC’s instructors bring not only expertise but also a genuine passion for helping new players discover the joy of pickleball. Laughter, high‑fives, and “aha!” moments are common sights on the courts.

A Growing Hub for Health, Connection, and Fun

The partnership between EVPC and Willamalane has created more than just a class series—it has built a thriving entry point into the local pickleball community. Many graduates of the program now play regularly at Willamalane facilities, public courts in and around Eugene/Springfield, join EVPC events, and contribute to the sport’s expanding presence in Lane County.