OCALA, FL (352today.com) – It was two years ago when Ursula Cui first picked up a pickleball paddle.
Inspired by her sister’s involvement in the sport, Cui decided to try pickleball despite having no prior experience with racquet or paddle sports. After watching a few games, she was intrigued enough to step onto the court herself.
Her passion for the sport shows that anyone can embrace and succeed at pickleball, regardless of their initial experience level.
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“Just keep playing, don’t get discouraged,” said Cui, who is now a member of the Ocala Pickleball Club. “People who play the sport are super friendly and they’re willing to go out of their way to make certain you’re enjoying the game. When I first started, I played poorly, and I didn’t know the rules, but everyone was welcoming. These people here in Ocala, they’re awesome.”
The sport has brought multiple benefits to Cui’s life, including improved fitness and significant weight loss. Her competitive spirit has driven her continued improvement, and she enthusiastically declares, “I love playing.”
Cui recently participated in her first competitive event, the Big Sun Tournament at Coehadjoe Park on Nov. 16. “I wanted to come out and support our community,” said Cui. “The people who play here are great. John Hunt, who the courts are named after, was the nicest person you would ever want to meet.”