New Pickleball Courts Debut in Princeton: A group of enthusiastic pickleball players gathered in Princeton on Saturday, August 10, to celebrate the opening of four new, top-tier pickleball courts at Memorial Park. The event, which coincided with National Pickleball Day, featured a barbecue, games, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a special appearance by Princeton’s beloved mascot, Peter Pine.
Barry Ovington, president of the Princeton Pickleball Association, addressed a crowd of around 50 people, expressing gratitude for the community’s hard work and donations that made the project possible. He noted that organizers visited other communities, including Merritt and Kamloops, to research court design and best practices.
“What we have here is very nice,” Ovington said, highlighting that visiting players have praised the courts, with some calling them the best they’ve seen. The project cost approximately $130,000. The Princeton Pickleball Association organized fundraisers, and a significant donation from Weyerhaeuser’s community fund gave the project substantial momentum.
The Town of Princeton contributed $25,000, and the regional district added $50,000. Donations from local businesses provided about $50,000 in products and services, reducing overall costs.
Contributions came from Hudbay, Princeton Wood Preservers, Save On Foods, and in-kind donations from Mike Grgich Contracting, G R (Mac) Lind Logging Ltd., J. Powell Excavating and Fencing, and John Allison Trucking.
“Thank you. Thank you. Thank you,” Ovington said, expressing appreciation for the support. The new courts are open to everyone, with paddles and balls available for borrowing, allowing newcomers to try the game before investing in their equipment.
“Pickleball is for all ages. Many of our members are seniors, and this keeps them active and healthy.” – (Ovington)
News in Brief: New Pickleball Courts Debut in Princeton
On August 10, Princeton celebrated the opening of four new pickleball courts at Memorial Park on National Pickleball Day. The event featured a barbecue, games, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony, with a special appearance by the town’s mascot, Peter Pine. Barry Ovington, president of the Princeton Pickleball Association, praised the community’s efforts and noted the courts are among the best seen by visiting players.
The $130,000 project was funded by community fundraisers, a major donation from Weyerhaeuser, and contributions from the Town of Princeton and local businesses. The new courts are open to all, with equipment available for borrowing.
