Pickleball - a sport with a quirky name and a simple learning curve - continues to surge in popularity across Westchester County, drawing players of all ages to courts throughout the region.

Instructor Jonathan Fintak says the unusual name traces back to the sport’s origin.

“The person who invented the sport, his dog’s name was Pickles, and he was always chasing the ball,” Fintak said. “So they decided to call it pickleball.”

During a lesson, Fintak demonstrated some of the game’s basics, including the “kitchen,” the area near the net where much of the action happens. One of the first skills players learn is “dinking,” a soft shot used to control rallies close to the net.

The sport’s accessibility is a major factor behind its rapid growth. Sport Time Fitness has already opened five dedicated pickleball centers in the region this year, reflecting the demand for courts and lessons.

Players say the appeal goes beyond competition. Stanley Chin, of Eastchester, says the game has become an important social activity for him and his friends.

“I just have a whole bunch of friends I play with. I just enjoy the social aspect,” Chin said.

Chin also plans to celebrate his upcoming 69th birthday at the pickleball courts.

With an easy learning curve and a strong social element, the sport continues to attract new players across Westchester.