Pickleball has made some changes due to the coronavirus outbreak. OBSERVER File Photo

The pickleball world in Dunkirk and Fredonia remains in full swing despite the coronavirus pandemic. Gary Mrowka one of the event organizers shared how groups in the area are keeping safe while still trying to make the most of their summer.

“We are under restrictions with a little different design,” Mrowka said. “We’re following the six-foot rule, we wear gloves and masks, sanitize the ball and paddle and several people use their own ball.”

Mrowka went on to say that the other court doesn’t touch the ball, rather pass it back over using their paddle. A lot of these regulations are similar to the U.S. Pickleball Association’s recommendations.

Safety regulations, Mrowka shared are left up to the municipalities. The only difference between the Dunkirk and Fredonia organizations is that they don’t wear masks in Fredonia until individuals step off the court.

“It’s been a good turnout with the matches,” Mrowka stated. “There hasn’t been a lot of change in attendance, there’s been a few people that haven’t come, but everyone is happy and enjoying themselves.”

Events are scheduled in Dunkirk from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday and Wednesday in Wright Park. Call Mrowka at 545-3001. In Fredonia, the matches are Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Russell Joy Park from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Contact Ed Kirchmeyer at 432-6114 for more information.