Recreation Department recognizes Volunteer of the Month Raf Frankel
Raf Frankel began volunteering at the Sanibel Recreation Center in late 2013 by taking a lead role in the development of the pick-up pickleball program. Frankel has greatly enjoyed making new friends, getting to know the recreation center staff and enhancing his coaching skills all while generating an awareness of pickleball.
“Pickleball is both an under-recognized sport and one that is misunderstood as being mostly for seniors. While true that it is a wonderful game for seniors and those who don’t usually see themselves as athletes, pickleball will challenge the skill, speed, reflexes, balance, coordination and court savvy of the most talented sports enthusiasts playing at more advanced levels. It’s fun no matter how you play and special because it’s so good at crossing generational lines and skill levels.”
Frankel and his wife Bonnie are seasonal residents spending their winters on Sanibel and summers in the Boston area surrounded by family. He has been playing pickleball for 8 years and is happy to see that he no longer has to leave the island to play. Frankel is looking forward to the growing popularity of pickleball on the island and hopes to continue to contribute to the sport at the recreation center next winter.
Volunteer opportunities are now available. For information on joining your friends and neighbors who serve as Recreation Center Volunteers please call 472-0345.
The Sanibel Recreation Center is located at 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road. Daily, weekly, semi-annual and annual memberships are available. For more information, call the Sanibel Recreation Center at 472-0345 or visit our web site at mysanibel.com.