[jimjamuser]

Originally Posted by Michael 61

I just celebrated my two year anniversary of being a Villager last week. People that know me are familiar with my mantra to all newcomers - “Try everything at least once”. Don’t assume an activity or club is not for you, if you’ve never bothered to attend a meeting, or try an activity.

I assumed I would find shuffleboard tedious and boring - I ended up being the captain of a team that plays in a weekly competitive league, and have made many strong friendships as a result, and some of us have spun off into other activities here in The Villages.

On the flip side, I thought I would really get into Water Volleyball, but after trying it, didn’t really care for it.

I thought Cardio Drumming looked silly, but gave it a try anyway, and guess what - I didn’t care for it, but glad I at least attempted it before passing final judgment.

I thought Pickleball was going to be something I could take or leave, but has ended up being my most favorite activity in The Villages, even more so than golf.

I have recently tried and now enjoy Croquet. This week, I finally got around to taking an Archery lesson, and could now see that activity being shoe-horned into my busy weekly schedule.

Boozey Bingo initially sounded lame to me, but I am now a regular at Sawgrass on Monday nights, and it’s a great time to socialize with so many friends at our table.

Trivia is lots of fun, and there are large groups that congregate south of 44 to play several evenings a month.

I just started and officially chartered a Monopoly Club (meets First Thursday of each month at Saluki Rec Center at 1230pm), and it is growing and well-attended.

Bottom line to newbies, try everything. I think you’ll be surprised by some events that you initially thought were not for you, that you may end up taking a liking to. You’ll be surprised how quickly your circle of friends grows as a result.

I learned to like badminton. A really great sport. Also table tennis. I liked water volleyball for a few years, then lost interest.