ZoomerMonk shared their experience of elder players engaging in gatekeeping behaviors in pickleball, leaving newcomers feeling excluded and bullied. The post has sparked a discussion on the subreddit.
Summary
- Older players in pickleball exhibit gatekeeping tendencies that alienate newcomers.
- Various users recounted instances of feeling belittled and targeted by elder players.
- Strained interactions on the court detract from the enjoyment and inclusivity of the game.
Insights on Gatekeeping
Effherewegoagain highlighted that gatekeeping is not unique to pickleball, as some individuals seek to assert superiority in different aspects of their lives.
Dealing with Gatekeepers
brochaos shared a personal encounter where they confronted an older player for constant criticism, emphasizing the need to address such behaviors to preserve the fun in the game.
Positive Perspective
GrouchyExile advised players to focus on enjoying the sport and disregarding negativity, noting that problematic individuals are exceptions rather than the norm.
Officerkc attributed some gatekeeping behaviors to older players feeling threatened or possessive of the sport, highlighting the importance of inclusivity.
SorenTheKitten warned against engaging with negative individuals, suggesting that avoiding such interactions is crucial for maintaining a positive experience.
Community Dynamics
kurtthesquirt observed a trend of controlling behavior among certain players, creating unnecessary drama and disrupting the recreational atmosphere of pickleball.
penkowsky questioned the motives behind gatekeeping, pointing out the irony that some elder players may not acknowledge the talent of younger professionals in the sport.