After witnessing the success of launching The Fun Island in 2022, by inviting families and friends together for a playful and memorable experience, co-founders Ronali and Dilshan Michael have recently expanded on their vision to offer the community an active entertainment space, and have since introduced the public to The Pickle Island. 

Nestled in the bustling city of Colombo within the grounds of Arcade Independence, The Pickle Island boasts three well-established courts tailored to meet international standards that allow players to indulge in the spirit of pickleball - a sport that marries the elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong, with the use of a paddle and a perforated plastic ball. 

Due to its simplicity, it is easy for anyone to learn how to play the game, negating the idea that you need to be experienced to be able to have fun from the get-go. The sport promotes exercise both mentally and physically, by enabling you to harness your balance, agility, hand-eye coordination and reflexes with limited strain on your body. Additionally, it ignites a conversation with peers throughout the game and fosters a connection between players, making it an ideal activity for social recreation.

Despite facing challenges in construction due to harsh weather conditions, Ronali Michael expressed that it is “the first three courts built in the heart of Colombo in the most picturesque location” that makes The Pickle Island’s identity special. She shares that it was the passion and obsession with the sport that inspired them to establish such a space, allowing the dream of “bringing people and communities together to have fun and get a great workout in the process,” to come to fruition.

Pickleball just so happens to be the fastest-growing sport in the world- yet another factor Ronali and Dilshan couldn’t ignore. The Pickle Island helps pave the way for pickleball in Sri Lanka, where people across all ages and skill levels find themselves given the opportunity to network with one another and participate in a thriving social circle while simultaneously adding a new skill to their arsenal.

At The Pickle Island, guests will receive the necessary equipment (including paddles and balls) as well as basic training on how to play for first-timers. With proper guidance provided by the team, the game is easy to pick up and enjoy between children and adults alike. Booking a session is made simple by downloading the play.book app on the app store/play store and search for “The Pickle Island” to schedule a time slot that is convenient to you.

The future of The Pickle Island is a promising one. “We are in the process of registering as an official club and will be hosting tournaments soon,” Ronali informs us. She also hints at organising camps, retreats and more, with plans to make the sport accessible all across the island to bring forth a new revolution of health and play. 

Whether it’s kindling your competitive spirit or dropping in after a long day at work for a casual round of pickleball, The Pickle Island welcomes anyone willing to grab a paddle and get with the game! 

Photo courtesy: The Pickle Island