The sand pits at Kelowna's Boyce-Gyro Beach are typically full of eager volleyball players. However, in recent years, an innovative new sport to Canada, beach tennis, has taken over.
The sport, first started in Italy in the 1970s, is picking up steam in participation.
"I love to play it, it is low-impact because it is on the sand," said Fernanda Romancini, co-founder of . "It started in Italy, then moved around the world and gained a lot of popularity in Brazil, where I began playing it."
In 2017, Romancini brought the game to Canada, starting up a club in Toronto. A few years ago, when she made the move to Kelowna, the sport came with her.
The sport combines aspects of volleyball, tennis and badminton. The tennis scoring system is used, but the ball is not allowed to touch the ground and players hit volleys back and forth, making it a quicker game than traditional tennis.
The sand adds aspects of volleyball, as players can dive for the ball, and the court is similar in size to a volleyball court. Teams of two play against one another, and the objective is to return the ball to the other side with only one hit.
A paddle-like racket is used along with depressurized tennis balls, which travel more slowly through the air.
Playing outside in the sun and sand is what Romancini finds the most fun about it. "It is fast-paced, and anyone can play, you don't need a background in tennis."
In August, 2025, Toronto is hosting the first-ever National Championship, along with an internationally sanctioned Toronto Cup. The major events coming to Canada mark a 'huge step' forward for the sport, according to Romancini.
There is even momentum with bringing .
Those interested in trying the sport out can register at .
Fees are just $28 and will get you eight hours (two hours each Wednesday in August) of instruction and fun. Classes commence Aug. 6 from 6-8 p.m. at the Gyro Beach sand courts.
"We have everything you need; no need to purchase a racket or ball," Romancini added. "Just come on out and have some fun!"
