Sports in Apple Valley (Minnesota)
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In a pickle
It’s not quite tennis and it’s not quite badminton, and curiously, there are no pickles involved – unless you include the post-game snack. Pickleball, named after the founder’s border collie, is a growing sport developed in the Apple Valley area. Usually played outdoors on a modified tennis court, pickleballers volley the orb-shaped pickle back and forth over a low net. The key is to maintain court awareness and positioning while readying oneself for a violent pickle-smash from the opposing side. Although the average age of much of the city’s picklers is well over 65, it is slowly gaining popularity with the 50+ crowd. If you find yourself challenged to a pickling match, here’s a helpful list of pickleball terms you should know:
Pickle in the middle – an extended rally between two evenly matched picklers
Spear – a point-winning smash
Mr./Ms. Vlasic – a player adept in the ways of pickling or a difficult opponent
Tommy Pickles – a pickleball rookie
Peter Piper – a heckler bent on ruining the match
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Andy’s Market Hill, 14113 Galaxie Ave. Open 24 hours a day (not recommended after dusk). Looking for some winter fun and the exciting prospect of being paralyzed from the face down? Look no further than the epic sledding hill behind the beloved Andy's Market. Be warned: although impressive to younger women, do not stand up on your sled, as you run the risk of a terrible whitewash. Afterwards, why not enjoy a hot cup of java from the perennially changing coffee shop attached to this hallmark stopover. Free. �
Valleywood Golf Course, 4851 125th St W, ☎ +1 952 953-2323, . 9AM-dusk daily. Widely recognized as one of the premier public golf courses in the Twin Cities area. 18 holes, par 71, elite driving range, practice green, quality pro shop, bar and grill (food & beverage cart) and club rental. Twilight golfing begins at 7PM for thrifty hackers. Green fees $20/9, $30/18 (Carts $6/9, $10/18). �
Broomball. Broomball may have originated in Canada, but it’s epicenter seems to be located on the frozen ponds of Apple Valley and the surrounding small towns. Several indoor rinks provide a warmer, more hospitable environment, but for those that want a true experience, head outside and wait your turn on the boards. The nation’s governing body and sponsored team, USA Broomball, recruits several of its members from this hotbed of brooming. A local legend and national star mentors players in the area high school leagues. If time permits, it’s highly recommended by past spectators that you catch one of these games – emotions are high and, usually, so are the players. Broomball is really a game that can be enjoyed by all. Many stores sell used equipment – shoes, brooms, pads, helmets, and for the more timid players, nutcups. These purchases are a small price to pay for what can be a great experience and a chance to immerse oneself in the city. �
The Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions about Apple Valley (Minnesota)
