Centre Street Pickleball Club Opens Its Doors: The newly established Centre Street Pickleball Club in Fenwick is set to revolutionize the local pickleball scene, offering year-round access for players seven days a week. This initiative comes as a result of a recent partnership between Jim Fraser, a dedicated advocate for pickleball, and Concordia Ontario Academy. The gymnasium at the Centre Street facility, previously known as Fenwick’s Pelham Centre School, will now serve as a vibrant indoor venue for pickleball enthusiasts.
A Growing Interest in Themed Events
As the meeting progresses, Fraser discusses the growing popularity of themed pickleball events, particularly in the United States. Local pickleballer, Long, presents a printed promotional piece for his upcoming Pickleball Social. This unique event is designed for unattached individuals aged 50 and above, allowing them to sign up individually and play several games with different partners. “There is no proof of singleness required,” Long assures, dispelling any lingering misconceptions about the event’s requirements.
Fraser’s Commitment to the Sport
Jim Fraser, who has tirelessly worked for five years to establish a dedicated indoor facility in the Niagara Region, highlights the need for a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels. His efforts to develop pickleball courts at the old Thorold Arena and discussions with Brock University regarding the Canada Games facilities have not yet yielded results. Fraser emphasizes the safety benefits of indoor play, especially given the increasing ultraviolet radiation exposure during summer months in Canada. “It’s overwhelming how people respond to this,” Fraser shares. “I had six new people out last night, and they all took their skills and drills and had smiles on their faces when they left.”
An Inclusive Atmosphere
The Centre Street Pickleball Club aims to cater to both newcomers and seasoned players looking for higher-level competition. The facility allows players to choose partners with similar skill levels, a feature often lacking in other Niagara venues. The club’s bright lighting and freshly marked yellow pickleball court lines enhance the inviting atmosphere, making it a great place for both play and socializing.
Affordable Access for All
As a registered non-profit organization, the Centre Street Pickleball Club operates with affordable membership fees. An annual membership costs $80, with an additional $5 fee for each two-hour session. New members must also join Pickleball Canada for a fee of $10. In a generous offer, the session fee is waived for the remainder of October. Fraser’s passion for the sport is evident, having organized numerous tournaments across the region, including a fundraising Pickleball Charity Scramble in support of St. John Ambulance Niagara Branch volunteers.
Upcoming Events
Players of all levels are invited to participate in an event scheduled for November 23 at St. Catharine’s Haig Bowl Arena. All games will be played in doubles format, with partners rotating throughout the event. The $40 registration fee includes light refreshments, prizes, paddles, and instruction for those new to the sport. More information is available on the St. John Ambulance Niagara Branch Facebook page.
As Fraser concludes the interview, he emphasizes the club’s dual mission: “One of the big things is that you’re servicing seniors and retirees, and you’re also servicing the working adults who can’t come during the day.” With the Meridian Community Centre currently offering limited hours for pickleball, the Centre Street Pickleball Club provides a much-needed option for evening and weekend play from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. every day.
Things are certainly bouncing in Pelham and across Niagara as the local pickleball community gears up for more venues and events. This new facility is set to be a game-changer for all involved.
News in Brief: Centre Street Pickleball Club Opens Its Doors
The Centre Street Pickleball Club in Fenwick is launching a year-round indoor pickleball facility, allowing pickleball players to enjoy the sport seven days a week. Founded by Jim Fraser in collaboration with Concordia Ontario Academy, the club will host themed events like the Pickleball Social for unattached individuals aged 50 and older. With affordable membership options and a welcoming atmosphere, the club aims to serve both new players and seasoned competitors. Upcoming events include a charity scramble on November 23, providing a platform for community engagement and skill development.
ALSO READ: Pickleball Courts Cause Chaos in Santa Barbara: A Tale of Two Billionaires