Gosfield Pickleball Club
Bringing the community together through Pickleball
Pickleball, one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports, has become a favourite among Braintree residents. Gosfield Pickleball Club, which has been running for over 2.5 years at Gosfield School in Halstead, caters to players of all abilities and is continually expanding with new members.
Pickleball has brought the community together and reduced social isolation. It has also improved physical and mental wellbeing within the community, giving residents an opportunity to meet others and try something new.
Earlier this year, the club faced a barrier due to a lack of nets to support the members on the waiting list. However, with a grant from the Active Braintree Foundation, which supports projects that benefit people’s health and wellbeing and increase participation in various activities, the club was able to purchase proper pickleball nets. This upgrade allowed more participants to play the sport, and the response has been incredible, making a significant difference to the club.
Gosfield Pickleball Club has truly noticed the significant impact of something as simple as new nets. With the help of Active Essex, this improvement was made possible, as the club, being small and friendly, did not want to pass the cost onto their participants. Additionally, they have received a visit from the Find Your Active Community Navigator, who helped promote their location and activities to more residents.
At the end of the year, Gosfield Pickleball Club won the ‘Sports Club of the Year’ award at the Braintree District Volunteer and Active Braintree Awards 2024. This achievement highlights the dedication of the club's owners, Lee and Jane, in making the club a welcoming and successful community for all.
