Penn State’s New Pickleball Facility: While the University of Southern California recently sacrificed its outdoor pickleball courts for new athletic facilities, Penn State University (PSU) has embraced the sport with open arms. On September 9, the university celebrated the grand opening of 12 brand-new pickleball courts, providing students with a vibrant space to engage in this rapidly growing sport.
Meeting the Demand
According to Stephen Kamp, Senior Director of PSU Campus Recreation, the initiative arose from a pressing need. The pickleball club at Penn State has seen significant growth, and existing outdoor spaces simply couldn’t keep pace with the burgeoning membership.
“At Penn State, we’re lucky to have plenty of outdoor tennis facilities,” Kamp stated in a September 19 article published in Campus Rec. “We opted to transform a three-court tennis area into twelve pickleball courts, selecting the site for its high student traffic, visibility, and potential to enhance the overall appearance of the area.”
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A New Facility for All
The expansive 24,000 square-foot facility is not just about the courts. It includes two spectator cabanas, providing essential shade for those watching the action unfold. John Reecer, a local writer, noted that these courts are accessible to all Penn State students and those with a Campus Recreation membership, open from sunup to sundown every day.
A Promising Future
Kamp is confident that these new courts will quickly become a hub of activity on campus. The rise in indoor pickleball participation among students only adds to his optimism.
“Moving forward, we’re committed to offering new opportunities for students to engage in activities that enhance their overall well-being,” he remarked. “The addition of pickleball courts not only meets this goal but also has the potential to attract students who may not typically participate in other campus recreation activities.”
News in Brief : Penn State’s New Pickleball Facility
On September 9, Penn State University opened 12 new pickleball courts, catering to the increasing demand from its growing pickleball club. Stephen Kamp, Senior Director of Campus Recreation, highlighted the transformation of an old tennis area into these courts, which also feature spectator cabanas.
Open daily from dawn to dusk, the facility aims to engage more students in recreational activities, promoting overall well-being on campus. As indoor pickleball participation rises, the new courts are expected to become a popular destination for students.
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