Juan de Fuca’s Pickleball Court Expansion: Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre in West Shore is opening six new outdoor pickleball courts, with a soft launch on Friday, May 30, and a public opening on June 13 at 10 a.m. The $438,000 project comes as demand for pickleball grows across Canada and in the region.
New Courts Open as Popularity Rises
Four of the new courts will be available for booking online. Two courts will stay open for drop-in play. The new courts are meant to give players a proper space to enjoy the game. Before, players had to rely on temporary setups using tape and cones.
The sport is growing quickly. A February 2025 study by a Canadian research firm, presented by Pickleball Canada, showed that 1.54 million people now play pickleball in Canada. That’s up from one million in 2022, with a 57% growth in three years and a 15% increase since 2024.
A Smooth Build with Minor Upgrades
Grant Brown, Chief Executive Officer of West Shore Parks and Recreation, said things went smoothly despite some early concerns.
“This project’s been in the works for about six months. Everything went really well – smooth sailing. The only real challenge was the limited number of contractors who specialize in building pickleball courts.” – (Grant Brown)
The courts cost $438,000 to build, just over the planned $400,000 budget. The extra cost covered small upgrades, like expanding the asphalt area. This will make room for picnic tables and a hangout space next to the courts.
A Better Space for Everyone
The new courts are built just for pickleball. This helps reduce tension between tennis and pickleball players who used to share courts. A new sign system will guide each group to their own area.
“The hope is that this helps balance the needs of both groups. We’ve had a few situations where each side thought they had priority, but for the most part, it’s been pretty civil.” – (Rob Wilson)
Plans for the courts were based on a study and visits to other locations. Ron Dietrich, operations manager, said they used ideas from Kerry Park but made some changes.
“We lowered the fencing around the courts to make it more spectator-friendly. The original plan had eight-foot fencing, but we opted for something that makes it easier for people to watch or lean on the fence while waiting their turn. It feels more inviting now.” – (Ron Dietrich)
Pickleball Demand Keeps Growing
Pickleball is not new to Juan de Fuca. The centre added two indoor courts in 2020 by turning the curling rink into an indoor sports space. Since then, more and more people have been playing, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“There’s definitely been an uptick. We’ve had people asking for more courts for a while now.” – (Grant Brown)
The new courts will also allow more programs and events. People have already asked about tournaments. TurfBurn, a local soccer event, is thinking about adding pickleball to its schedule. West Shore’s sports program coordinator is also planning a tournament in June. More games and events are expected all summer long.
A Place to Play and Hang Out
The centre is ready to support new players too. Basic gear will be sold at the front desk and pro shop. In the warmer months, Friday barbecues will offer food and drinks near the courts.
“Between the skate park, tennis, golf, and now these new courts, it’s a great place to spend the day. You can play, you can relax, and now you can grab a burger and a beer while you’re at it.” – (Grant Brown)
News in Brief: Juan de Fuca’s Pickleball Court Expansion
West Shore is opening six new pickleball courts at Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre, with a soft opening on May 30 and official launch on June 13. The $438,000 project gives players dedicated space and adds social features like picnic tables and barbecues. More programming and tournaments are planned.
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