New Pickleball Courts in Charlottetown: After a year of anticipation and hard work, Charlottetown’s pickleball enthusiasts have a reason to celebrate. The grand opening of six new pickleball courts at Hillsborough Park took place on Thursday evening, marking a major milestone for the city’s sports community. Located at 199 Patterson Drive, these courts are now open from 9 a.m. until dusk, operating on a first-come, first-play basis. “Everyone can’t believe how beautiful they are,” said Lisa Murphy, president of the Charlottetown Pickleball Club, reflecting the excitement of the occasion.
From Planning to Reality
The journey to these dedicated courts began with extensive discussions between city officials and the local pickleball community. “They talked about how popular the sport is, talked about wanting to have the opportunity to play this exciting sport in the capital city,” explained Coun. Mitchell Tweel, chair of the parks, recreation, and leisure committee. This dialogue led to the allocation of $60,000 in the city’s 2024-2025 budget to transition some tennis courts into pickleball courts, which Tweel described as “a huge step in the right direction.”
“I know there is interest from the private sector and other interested groups looking to open up pickleball courts, not just outdoor but indoor. We believe that this is an excellent beginning for a venue for this type of sport.” – (Mitchell Tweel)
The Rise of Pickleball
Pickleball’s popularity continues to surge. A Pickleball Canada survey revealed that over 1.3 million Canadians played at least once a month in 2023, a significant increase from 350,000 in 2021. The sport, traditionally popular among older adults, is increasingly attracting younger players, particularly those aged 18 to 34. This trend highlights pickleball’s broad appeal and growing presence across various age groups.
A New Standard for Plan
For Murphy, the new courts are more than just a facility—they are a game-changer. “I was surprised and delighted by how intense the colours are, so that you can really see the ball playing on top of the surface,” she noted. Transitioning from multi-purpose courts to dedicated pickleball courts offers clarity and a better playing experience, which Murphy and other players greatly appreciate.
Community Impact and Growth
In just a year, the Charlottetown Pickleball Club has seen remarkable growth, attracting all locals and visitors. Murphy’s involvement has led to meeting “hundreds of people” and experiencing the sport’s diverse appeal firsthand. During a recent game, she observed families and elite athletes enjoying the new courts. “We were all laughing and you could just hear the excitement of the kids,” Murphy said, capturing the vibrant atmosphere and the positive impact of the new facilities.
The addition of these dedicated pickleball courts enhances the local sports landscape and sets the stage for future growth in Charlottetown’s pickleball community. With ongoing interest and enthusiasm, the new courts at Hillsborough Park represent a significant step forward in the city’s commitment to providing top-notch recreational facilities.
News in Brief: New Pickleball Courts in Charlottetown
Charlottetown has opened six new pickleball courts at Hillsborough Park, marking a significant upgrade for local enthusiasts. Open daily from 9 a.m. to dusk at 199 Patterson Drive, these courts are available on a first-come, first-play basis. The project, which began with discussions between city officials and the Charlottetown Pickleball Club, received $60,000 in funding from the city’s 2024-2025 budget to transition tennis courts into pickleball courts.
The sport, rapidly growing in popularity, now boasts over 1.3 million Canadian players. Lisa Murphy of the Charlottetown Pickleball Club praised the new facilities for their vibrant colors and clear lines, enhancing the playing experience. The courts are expected to foster even greater community engagement and enjoyment of the sport.
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