New Outdoor Pickleball Courts in Church Hill: A lively crowd of over 30 gathered on Friday morning to celebrate the grand opening of Church Hill’s first outdoor pickleball courts at J.W. Salley Park. This transformation of former tennis courts now features six dedicated pickleball courts alongside one remaining tennis court.
“I think it’s going to be good for everybody around here,” Church Hill Mayor Dennis Deal told the attendees. “We hope you enjoy it.” He expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the project, highlighting the importance of community involvement.
“We’re investing in the community; it’s what you have to do because it’s the community that really makes it.” – (Deal)
Local Leaders’ Remarks
The opening was attended by Church Hill aldermen, who echoed the sentiments of enthusiasm. “I hope everybody enjoys it,” Alderman Keith Gibson said. Alderman Michael Walker praised the community’s role, stating,
“I’m just thankful for a good community surrounding this place. You all are why we are able to do this stuff, not just through taxpayer dollars, but the fact that you’ll participate in this. I’m just looking forward to seeing what everybody gets to enjoy.”
Anticipation and Accessibility
City Recorder Kimberly Dobbs, who cut the ribbon, noted the high level of anticipation for the new courts and anticipated growing interest in pickleball. “Our senior center has a lot of avid players. That’s why we wanted to make it accessible to seniors, as well.” The courts are expected to serve as a local hub for pickleball enthusiasts, reducing the need to travel to nearby cities.
Pickleball Enthusiasm
USA Pickleball Ambassador Anna Walters was eager to play right after the ribbon-cutting. “It’s awesome,” she said of the sport. Walters highlighted pickleball’s accessibility and rising popularity.
“The great thing about pickleball is it’s easy to learn. You don’t need to spend hours and hours learning it. Secondly, it’s a low-cost entry. … It’s great for all ages, that’s the big thing.” – (Walters)
She observed that the average age of players has shifted from 60s to 18-34, emphasizing the sport’s broad appeal.
“It’s fun, that’s the bottom line. You can be very competitive and win, and you can just play to have fun.” – (Walters)
News in Brief: New Outdoor Pickleball Courts in Church Hill
On August 7, 2024, Church Hill celebrated the grand opening of its first outdoor pickleball courts at J.W. Salley Park, transforming former tennis courts into six pickleball courts and one tennis court. Mayor Dennis Deal and local aldermen praised the project, emphasizing community involvement.
City Recorder Kimberly Dobbs highlighted the anticipated rise in interest across all age groups, from students to seniors. USA Pickleball Ambassador Anna Walters noted the sport’s accessibility and growing popularity. The new courts are expected to enhance local recreational opportunities and foster community engagement.
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