Why Pickleball is the Hottest Sport in Port Alberni: Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity in Port Alberni, reflecting a national trend that has seen the sport’s popularity soar across Canada. With a growing number of players seeking a stable home for their games, the Port Alberni Picklers Association is demanding dedicated outdoor pickleball courts to accommodate the rise of new members and foster a vibrant community atmosphere.
Established nearly ten years ago, the Port Alberni Picklers Association has become a cornerstone for pickleball players in the region. The pickleball club experienced a significant membership boost in the past year, growing from approximately 70 members to 125.
Sam Doumont, president of the association, expressed her excitement: “This is the most we’ve ever had.” This surge is part of a larger trend, as a 2022 survey by Pickleball Canada revealed that the number of Canadians playing pickleball has tripled in just two years, with estimates suggesting over one million individuals engage in the sport monthly.
An All-Ages Sport
What sets pickleball apart is its accessibility for players of all ages. As Sam Doumont explained,
“The big thing is that this is an all-ages sport. Whether you’re five years old, or up to 80 years old, you can still play it.” – (Sam Doumont)
This inclusive nature makes pickleball an attractive option for families and community members looking for an enjoyable way to stay active together. The Port Alberni Picklers enjoy year-round play, but their current facilities are becoming inadequate as their membership grows.
In the colder months, they utilize the Alberni Athletic Hall for indoor play, while summer games are held at Recreation Park. Unfortunately, they share these outdoor pickleball courts with other local groups, leading to crowded conditions.
“We’ve outgrown it. Really, the whole city’s outgrown it. Most days, all the courts [at Gyro Rec Park] are full.” – (Sam Doumont)
The Need for Dedicated Pickleball Facilities
The call for permanent courts has intensified as the association aims to host tournaments and events. Sam Doumont and her team believe that at least 12 dedicated outdoor courts are necessary to meet the needs of the community. “A pickleball court is something that’s really needed in the community.” she stated, emphasizing the importance of providing sufficient space for all players.
Fortunately, the City of Port Alberni is in the process of developing a Parks and Recreation Master Plan, offering a timely opportunity for the Port Alberni Picklers to push for their vision of permanent pickleball facilities. While informal discussions have taken place with city staff, Sam Doumont highlighted that funding these projects remains a significant hurdle. “If we want to try and find funding, we have to get on it now.” she urged, stressing the importance of proactive efforts.
Community Support and Future Prospects
To tackle the funding issue, the association is exploring sponsorship options from local businesses and community organizations. By rallying community support, the Port Alberni Picklers hope to secure the necessary resources to build dedicated courts that will not only serve their members but also enhance the overall recreational landscape in Port Alberni. The need for adequate facilities is essential, particularly as interest in the sport continues to grow.
News in Brief: Why Pickleball is the Hottest Sport in Port Alberni
The rise of pickleball in Port Alberni represents a fantastic opportunity for players of all ages to engage in a fun, active pastime. With membership numbers climbing at the Port Alberni Picklers Association and a collective desire for permanent courts, the community is assured of a bright future in the sport.
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