Denver Comedians Turn to Pickleball for Fun and Community

UPDATE: On a cold Saturday afternoon in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, a lively group of comedians is trading bar hangs for pickleball, sparking laughter and community bonding on the courts at 3rd Shot Pickleball. This unique twist on socializing is taking place as local stand-up comics lace up their sneakers and grab paddles, embracing a fresh way to connect without the need for drinks.

The gathering, dubbed the Denver Comedy Pennis Club, is the brainchild of comedian and producer Deb Lastowka, who became captivated by pickleball two years ago. “Pickleball is kind of a silly term, so one of our group members came up with the term ‘pennis,’ and that’s what we call it,” Lastowka explains. The group meets monthly, usually around noon, and has transformed into a social staple for Denver’s comedy scene.

This weekend, a dozen comedians took to the courts for their regular Saturday meetup, filled with casual competition and plenty of humor. The atmosphere is lighthearted, with trash talk kept to a minimum. “Some people are competitive, but for the most part, we try to keep it pretty chill and just have a good time,” Lastowka remarked. This monthly session has drawn a consistent crowd of around 12 to 15 players, all eager to engage in the sport that has become a key part of their social lives.

The initiative began when Lastowka and fellow sober comic Andrew Orvedahl sought ways to fill the void left by drinking. Their early games evolved into a one-off tournament that revealed their preference for relaxed play over fierce competition. “It’s just super fun and easy to pick up,” Lastowka shared. The welcoming environment at the gym, which provides free paddles when needed, allows the games to run year-round, even in the coldest conditions.

For comedian Christina Vasili, who has been involved since the inception of the group, the appeal is multifaceted. “It’s a nice time to get together with like-minded people from comedy,” she said. The camaraderie and the chance to engage in physical activity make the monthly meetups a highlight. Vasili, who initially hesitated to play, found herself drawn in and now looks forward to the event that fosters connections without the influence of alcohol.

Comedians like Ali Kareem were skeptical at first but quickly became fans, noting that the game is easier on the knees and provides a fun outlet. “I think it’s really cool to have community and just play pickleball with the other people and have fun,” he stated. Despite his competitive nature, Kareem values the friendships formed on the court, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the game over merely winning.

Lastowka, who has been sober for over four years, highlighted how pickleball has reshaped her interaction with the local comedy scene. “As a sober comedian, I don’t hang out in bars,” she noted, recognizing that this new activity has allowed her to connect with the community in a meaningful way. Plans are already in the works to pair comedy shows with pickleball events, further intertwining the two passions.

While some comedians have begun to infuse their pickleball experiences into their routines, others, like Vasili, are still contemplating how to bring their love for the game onto the stage. “It’s time to start developing the pickleball material,” she admitted, signaling that the sport’s influence is likely to grow within their comedic narratives.

This innovative approach to socializing among comedians is not just about the game; it represents a shift towards healthier interactions and a supportive community. With the ongoing popularity of pickleball, this group is set to continue growing, offering a vibrant alternative to the traditional bar scene and enhancing their connections through shared experiences on the court.

As the next meetup approaches, the energy and excitement among these Denver comedians are palpable. They are not just playing a game; they are building a community that thrives on laughter, support, and a mutual love for an activity that has become a significant part of their lives. Keep an eye on the Denver Comedy Pennis Club as they serve up both laughs and rallies on the courts.