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It's OK to be'in a pickle' Even those of advanced age or with infirmities find a home on the pickle- ball court. "We have tons of people playing in their 70s and 80s," she adds. "They are so happy socializing with others while getting out and getting good exercise. It's fantastic for their mental and physical health." People with joint and back injuries also enjoy the game because the court is much smaller than a tennis court and the ball is much lighter to strike. "Obviously, those with injuries still need to be careful but they have been able to do it," Toepel says, adding that wrapped knees, icing and stretching afterward is beneficial for those play- ing in any sport. Debbie Niedermeyer, a Mill Valley resident and lifelong tennis player, discovered pickleball a few months ago. She had been sidelined for three years with two torn rotator cuffs and shoulder surgery. But she is once again enjoying being out on the court. "I was worried about doing anything to my shoulders," she says. "Pickle- ball is much easier on your body than tennis and I'm less likely to hurt my shoulders." Her son, Chet Niedermeyer, a ris- ing sophomore who is home for the summer from Southern Methodist University in Texas, joined her for a game of pickleball recently, volleying against players a number of years older. "He liked it and I think he got a kick out of it," she figures. "It's the best Mother's Day present to have him back home and to be able to play a game on the court with him." Even if she does decide to play ten- nis again, Niedermeyer knows there's always a game of pickleball waiting in the wings if she chooses. "Once you try pickleball, no matter what other sport you may also play, you'll always have pickleball to make you laugh, smile and giggle," Toepel says. "There is something about the small plastic ball with 40 holes in it, that people love to hit." n People of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the game of pickleball. – Photo by PJ Bremier PICKLE: Low-impact pickleball gains fans Continued from Page 8 CALL US AT 415.491.1935 TO SCHEDULE A COMMUNITY TOUR. 275LosRanchitosRd.,SanRafael,CA94903|LifeatDrakeTerrace.com|Lic#216801028 Find peace of mind and continue your journey in our thriving community which has been offering exceptional care for over three decades. At Drake Terrace, safety and security is an integral part of our wellness philosophy - something we practice every day. Drake Terrace provides Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care with emphasis on whole-person wellness and care. KITCHEN 7'x7'6" ENTRY 5'x 6'6" BATH 5'x8' BEDROOM 10'6"x14'6" LIVING /DINING 12' x16'6" MECH REF. LINEN WH. BALCONY 4' x 10' THRIVINGAT DRAKE TERRACE STUDIO, 1 BEDROOM AND 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS AVAILABLE STARTING AT $4,550 10 June 5, 2022 Senior Living A Marketing Supplement of the Marin Independent Journal | marinij.com