Wilbraham Select Board Prioritizes Pickleball Over History: Pickleball’s rapid rise as the nation’s fastest-growing sport is well-deserved—it’s a dynamic, inclusive game that appeals to everyone. In a crucial decision during its June 24 session, the Wilbraham Select Board intended the future use of Memorial School, opting to prioritize the installation of pickleball courts over pursuing immediate historical designation.
Chair Susan Bunnell initiated the discussion by addressing a letter from Finance Committee Chair Kevin Hanks, urging the board to outline plans for the school’s future and assess associated financial implications.
Town Administrator Nick Breault detailed ongoing initiatives by the Historical Commission and Parks and Recreation Department regarding the Memorial School property. The Historical Commission, striving for state and federal historical status for years, faced a potential delay in its efforts. Meanwhile, Parks and Recreation had previously secured board approval for pickleball court construction at the school.
During deliberations, Parks and Recreation Director Bryan Litz underlined Memorial School’s suitability for the courts, emphasizing parking availability and community considerations regarding noise impact on neighbors.
Chair Roberta Albano provided insights into the Historical Commission’s progress, highlighting the school’s recent state historical designation and potential for national recognition due to its architectural significance and age. She noted the importance of timely action to avoid resubmission delays.
Discussion ensued regarding potential restrictions and benefits associated with historical designation, including preservation obligations and access to financial incentives.
Ultimately, the Select Board expressed collective support for proceeding with the pickleball courts, citing prior community support and board approval. In contrast, they opted to temporarily halt efforts towards historical designation in favor of crafting a comprehensive plan for Memorial School’s future use.
Advantages of Pickleball in Schools
Inclusivity: Pickleball stands out as an inclusive sport suitable for all skill levels and ages, making it an ideal addition to school physical education programs. Unlike traditional sports that often require specific talents, pickleball empowers every participant—from beginners to seasoned athletes—to feel included and successful. This inclusivity builds a positive environment where students of varying abilities can play together without the risk of injury, encouraging greater participation in physical activities.
Strategy and Skill Development: Combining elements of ping-pong, tennis, and chess, pickleball emphasizes strategic thinking over sheer athleticism. This aspect of the game allows students with strong critical thinking and decision-making skills to excel, often outperforming more physically skilled peers. It promotes a level playing field where well-placed shots and strategic maneuvers win points, providing an enjoyable challenge for students who may not thrive in traditional sports settings.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Pickleball offers a fun and effective way for students to enhance their hand-eye coordination. The slower pace of the game allows beginners and those developing motor skills to actively participate and improve their coordination abilities. This skill development is not only beneficial for pickleball but also translates into improved performance in academic tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as reading and writing.
Social Benefits: Beyond physical and cognitive development, pickleball builds a sense of community and camaraderie among players. Even in competitive matches, moments of laughter and teamwork are prevalent, ending in a shared appreciation for the game at the end of each match. These social interactions contribute to positive psychological effects, promoting mental well-being and a sense of belonging among participants.
Integrating pickleball into school physical education enhances students’ physical and cognitive development and cultivates a supportive and inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
News in Brief: Wilbraham Select Board Prioritizes Pickleball Over History
The Wilbraham Select Board’s decision on June 24 prioritized installing pickleball courts at Memorial School over pursuing immediate historical designation. Chair Susan Bunnell led discussions prompted by a letter from the Finance Committee, emphasizing the need for a future plan and financial assessment. Town Administrator Nick Breault highlighted ongoing efforts by the Historical Commission and Parks and Recreation Department. Despite progress towards historical status, the board opted to proceed with pickleball courts due to community support and logistical considerations. This move reflects pickleball’s broad appeal and inclusivity, benefiting schools by promoting physical activity, strategic thinking, hand-eye coordination, and building social connections among students.
