My sense of humor is questionable, but it always keeps me smiling. Lately I’ve faced the dilemma of selecting a new pickleball paddle. Now, you may call me crazy, but I found many similarities long ago in hunting for a husband, and recently while hunting for a pickleball paddle.

I wasn’t too choosy in picking my first paddle or my first husband. I was inexperienced and just wanted to play. But my husband, like my paddle, fizzled out after playing too long with too many. My approach in choosing my next paddle was serious, exactly like searching for my next husband. You might not know this, but men and paddles have a great deal in common. They come in all shapes and sizes. Wide, elongated, heavy, light, long handle, short handle, narrow and thick. Some were known for speed and swinging. Not for me. I learned some were noisier, more energetic, and made loud pops. The ones for slow games and finesse were interesting as they work well in the kitchen! What woman wouldn’t want a man or paddle master in the kitchen. Some paddles were trusted brands promising premium control and power which are important in every relationship. Some were very flashy, promising to win with lobs, slams, corners and known for control, which could put the ball right on the middle line, as Mel said, where they ain’t!”

First, I networked with friends. When that didn’t work, I started my own research. Narrowing down paddles was like narrowing down men. For men, I went to dating sites, looked at pictures, and read profile after profile. For pickleball paddles I relied on Amazon Prime which offered hundreds of choices. With men and paddles, size matters! Most importantly, it must be comfortable in your hand. Too large or too heavy would cause wear and tear on your body. Over stressing muscles and joints could cause your body to become fatigued, and you may no longer be able to play. So, size, weight and thickness are essential. Finances are also a consideration. You never want a man or a paddle out of your league financially. A lifestyle of champaign tastes and a beer pocketbook does not work on the courts or in a relationship. Yes, men and paddles have more in common than one might think. And size does matter!