Pickleball might be the only sport where you win points in the “kitchen,” execute an “Ernie,” and master something called a “dink.”
Invented in 1965 in Washington State, pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. The name itself has debated origins. One story credits a family dog named Pickles, another says it comes from the “pickle boat” crew in rowing made up of leftover players. Either way, the sport has developed its own colourful language. The “kitchen” is officially the non-volley zone near the net. An “Ernie” is a leaping shot taken outside that zone. And the “dink” – the soft, strategic touch shot near the net – is central to the game.
That shot is also the inspiration behind Cobourg’s newest facility: the Dink Den Pickleball Social Club.
Founder and co-owner Derek Munroe explains:
Munroe says pickleball’s rapid growth – now the fastest-growing sport in North America for several years – stems from accessibility.
The Dink Den is designed as more than just courts – it’s a social hub welcoming beginners and seasoned players alike, with free learn-to-play sessions planned.
Munroe says staying informed is easy.
The club plans leagues, coaching clinics, glow-in-the-dark events and social tournaments, creating a space where Cobourg residents of all ages can gather, compete, and connect.
In a sport built on soft touches and shared courts, the Dink Den is aiming to serve up something bigger: community.
To learn more check them out on the web at: https://dinkdenpickleballclub.com/ and download the app at: https://dinkdenpickleballclub.com/app
(Written by: Joseph Goden)