Michigan’s Pickleball Growth: The sport of pickleball, blending elements of badminton, tennis, ping pong, and wiffle ball, has surged in popularity across Michigan. Celebrated with National Pickleball Day on August 8, pickleball’s roots date back to 1965, when Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum invented the game on Bainbridge Island. Introduced to Michigan around 1985, it now boasts an estimated 50,000 players statewide.
Growth Across the State
Blair Cremeens, president of Michigan Pickleball, highlights the sport’s growth: “The growth is so significant that we are continually using adaptive leadership principles to move the sport forward.” He notes the need for dedicated courts to keep pace with the increasing demand, citing pickleball’s appeal as a highly social and accessible sport.
“As a four-season state, we play indoors year-round and outside in the warmer summer months.” – Cremeens
Court Developments in Rural Areas
Adrian
In Adrian, a $185,000 investment last summer created six new pickleball courts at Heritage Park. Jeremiah Davies, Parks and Recreation Department director, notes the high demand, with players arriving before 7 a.m. and courts remaining busy until dusk. The city has applied for a grant to fund additional amenities.
Alpena
Alpena introduced six dedicated pickleball courts in June 2022 at McRae Park, funded by the city and several local organizations, including the Besser Foundation and the Park Family Foundation.
East Jordan
East Jordan added four pickleball courts, with plans for two more at Centennial Park. Tom Cannon, city administrator, praises the collaboration with the Rotary Club and local community groups, emphasizing the positive impact on the city’s recreation and economy.
“The creation of the courts was a collaboration between the city of East Jordan, Rotary Club, a local condominium association and the Charlevoix County Community Foundation.”
“Overall, the addition of the pickleball courts have been an exceptional amenity to our recreation inventory that provides an economic impact to our downtown.” – Cannon
Escanaba
Escanaba is seeking $400,000 in grants to build eight pickleball courts at Royce Park, with construction potentially starting in late 2025 or early 2026.
Gladstone
Gladstone’s “Courts of Dreams Project” aims to raise $430,000 for eight new courts at John and Melissa Besse Sports Park. The project, funded by local donations and a grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, is a testament to the community’s commitment.
Ludington
Ludington offers eight well-maintained outdoor courts at Oriole Field. John Reed from the Ludington Area Pickleball Club highlights the free access and popular events, including the Ludington Pickleball Classic. Indoor options are available during winter at local facilities.
Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island received a $50,000 grant for three new pickleball courts at Great Turtle Park. The project reflects the island’s diverse demographic and strong community interest.
Marshall
Marshall is raising funds to convert a 1.6-acre parcel into Eaton Park, which will include pickleball courts. With $1.9 million raised and more needed, construction is planned to start in Fall 2024.
Saugatuck Area
The Douglas Saugatuck Pickleball Club, founded in 2015, maintains Schultz Park’s eight outdoor courts. While seven courts are reserved for members, one remains open to the public. Nearby, the Fennville Community Athletic Center offers three indoor wooden courts.
Traverse City
Peninsula Township and the Traverse Area Pickleball Association are working on a $50,000 grant for six new courts at Bower Harbor Park. The project is in the planning stages, with exact site determination ongoing.
News in Brief: Michigan’s Pickleball Growth
Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has gained significant traction in Michigan, now boasting around 50,000 players statewide. Celebrated with National Pickleball Day on August 8, the sport’s popularity has led to numerous developments across rural Michigan. Recent investments include new courts in Adrian, Alpena, East Jordan, and Gladstone, with funding also sought for projects in Escanaba and Marshall. Ludington offers eight outdoor courts, while Mackinac Island is adding three new courts. The Douglas Saugatuck Pickleball Club’s Schultz Park features eight courts, and Traverse City plans six new courts at Bower Harbor Park. Local communities are actively expanding facilities to meet the growing demand.
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