In the early days of the pandemic, when isolation had kept neighbors apart and our community felt unusually quiet, one Bayberry resident found a way to bring people together again — through a funny-sounding sport called pickleball.

Jeff Mittleman, now fondly known as the pioneer of pickleball in Bayberry, decided to transform our tennis courts into something new. With no official court lines, just a few plastic markers, and a low-budget portable net, Jeff set up a makeshift pickleball court and began inviting friends and neighbors to give it a try.

One resident recalls:

“It all started in the spring of 2020 after months of isolation during Covid. Jeff Mittleman asked me to play pickleball with him and his family. I said, ‘What is pickleball?’ He said, ‘Come to the tennis courts and I’ll teach you!’ And the rest is history.”

Those first few games drew people out of their homes — and out of hiding — after long months indoors. Jeff’s enthusiasm was contagious. He patiently taught newcomers the rules and showed everyone how fun the game could be. Before long, others were hooked.

Among the early players were Mitchell Fleiss, Steve and Jill L., and a handful of others who helped the game take root. What began with one temporary court and a borrowed net has grown into something much larger. Today, Bayberry boasts two professionally lined tennis courts that accommodate four pickleball courts, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels.

“Jeff saved the day! I had hurt my right shoulder, and I had a slight rotator cuff tear. This meant I had to give up my beloved Tennis! Oh How Saddened I was! What could possibly replace this game?! Not too long after this…Jeff told me about Pickleball!…. What….Pickleball? What in the world is that?…He told me about a class given at Mamaroneck H.S.’s ‘Center for Continuing Education’ for Pickleball. This, I believe, was about 5-6 years ago.
WoWZA! I found my new Love; replacing tennis. What a Game.
Jeff to the Rescue!! THANK YOU JEFF!

In fact Jeff opened up Pickleball to All of Bayberry! So Many of us have jumped into the Pickleball Barrel! We are Truly enjoying our time together, on the court and off. We All look so forward to ‘Pickling’ together!
Our Pickleball Hero – JEFF!!!”

The sound of laughter and paddles now fills the air on sunny mornings and evenings alike — a testament to one neighbor’s passion and persistence. The pickleball movement he started continues to grow, bringing families, friends, and newcomers together in a sport that embodies community spirit.