Airport Fitness will host the Island’s first ever professional adult pickleball camp and a pro exhibition match next weekend.

The match takes place on July 17, with the camp running from July 16 to 19. The event is organized by pickleball coach Cobi Moore and will include two professional pickleball players, Oscar Serra and Ryan Fu.

Oscar Serra played Division I tennis and is now the number one ranked pickleball player in Italy for both singles and doubles. Ryan Fu played Division I tennis and is now an international premier teaching professional for pickleball.

Connie McHugh, owner of Airport Fitness, said she’s excited to bring something new to the Island. “The coolest thing about it is people don’t get to see professional pickleball players live on the Island. It’s never happened here before, so this is an inaugural event in that regard.”

Airport Fitness is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, and this is its 15th year offering pickleball in the facility. Ms. McHugh said the event aims to appeal to the growing pickleball community.

“There are two opportunities for people to come in and actually work with professional players, which is kind of fun because there’s a substantial pickleball community here, and certainly a substantial pickleball community in the world right now.”

Airport Fitness’s pickleball coach Brendon Ryan, who will also be coaching at the camps, said he’s seen connections grow through the sport and hopes this event will continue that.

“The camaraderie and the relationship building that continues on the Island will be very enjoyable for people to gain friendships as they go forward in their games.”

Mr. Ryan highlighted that the pro exhibition match will be a great way for pickleball fans to learn.

“Just watching that and enjoying the game together is a unique experience that’s coming here. With all the things going on in the Vineyard, this one time, two hours on a Friday night to watch elite pickleball players is something special.”

The exhibition match takes place at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 17, followed by a Q&A with all the players and coaches. The two camps are from July 16 to 19. Each camp has 16 spots available.