Pickleball Fever Takes Over Sylacauga: Every Tuesday evening at Beth Yates Park in Sylacauga, pickleball paddles resonate as the Sylacauga Pickleball Club transforms the tennis courts into a vibrant hub of community activity.
Founded by Dr. Jonathon Douglas and Rosa Butts, the club has carved out a niche with free play sessions from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. While currently utilizing half of the tennis courts, the club’s popularity shows no sign of going down.
Reflecting on the club’s exponential growth, Dr. Douglas attributes its appeal to pickleball’s accessibility. We can put about 50 people on a pickleball court compared to two in tennis,” he notes, emphasizing the sport’s ability to accommodate a larger, diverse group of players.
The club’s commitment to inclusivity is clear in its welcoming atmosphere. Tuesday evenings also feature free lessons for children from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., ensuring pickleball’s appeal spans generations.
For Logan Paas, a paraplegic player whose life was changed by the sport after a tragic incident in 2019, pickleball has been a transformative experience. “Pickleball gave me my athletic fire back,” Paas reflects, highlighting its benefits for individuals with disabilities like himself.
Beyond regular play, the club organizes special events such as a glow-in-the-dark tournament in nearby Childersburg, scheduled for July 13 and 14. Enthusiastic participants like Queen and Linlee attest to the sport’s team work and enjoyment. “It’s fun and you get to meet new people,” they share, echoing the sentiments of many regulars.
Rebecca White, another dedicated member, praises the club’s community spirit. “It’s like family,” she says warmly, emphasizing the social benefits for all ages.
Looking ahead, the club aims to secure exclusive use of the courts on Tuesday nights and plans for a dedicated pickleball facility. Discussions with the city council about repurposing the old pool near Sylacauga High School into eight new pickleball courts reflect their ambitious growth trajectory.
As the Sylacauga Pickleball Club continues to thrive, its mission remains steadfast: to build an inclusive, enjoyable community activity that brings people together every Tuesday night, free of charge.
News in Brief : Pickleball Fever Takes Over Sylacauga
Every Tuesday evening at Beth Yates Park, the Sylacauga Pickleball Club transforms tennis courts into a bustling community hub. Founded by Dr. Jonathon Douglas and Rosa Butts, the club offers free play sessions and inclusive lessons for all ages, drawing in diverse participants. With plans for dedicated courts and exciting events like glow-in-the-dark tournaments, the club’s popularity continues to soar. For members like Logan Paas, pickleball is not just a sport but a life-changing experience.
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