Kolkata’s New Pickleball Court: Residents of Residency Apartments in City Centre 1 celebrated Republic Day with the launch of a new pickleball-cum-badminton court. Councillor Tulsi Sinha Roy inaugurated the pickleball facility, and residents wasted no time in taking up the sport.
A New Sporting Space for Residents
The initiative was led by the Residency Apartment Owners’ Association to provide a dedicated space for badminton and introduce pickleball, a sport that has been rapidly growing worldwide. Previously, residents had to play badminton on the roadside, often pausing for passing cars.
“Our residents love badminton but had no proper space to play. So we gifted ourselves a court and included pickleball, as it’s gaining popularity,” said Anindya Paul of the Owners’ Association.
The court was built on a former dumpyard and is now a hub of activity, with residents heading there straight after school and work.
Excitement Over Pickleball
Pickleball, a sport that originated in the US in 1965, combines elements of badminton and tennis. The smaller court, lightweight fibre ball, and short carbon racket make it easy to pick up for pickleball players of all ages.
Local student Shaurya Kapoor, a squash and badminton player, was thrilled about the convenience of playing under his own apartment. His friend Vansh Chopra, a badminton enthusiast, was eager to try pickleball.
Shaurya’s grandfather, Shyam Sundar Kapoor, even played the first game with the chief guest, Sinha Roy.
Plans for Coaching and Tournaments
Residency Apartments, home to 60 families, already offers facilities like a swimming pool, gym, and table tennis. The new court is free for residents, though guests may be charged a small fee for maintenance.
“We are in talks with coaches to teach us pickleball. As the game grows, we’ll install scoreboards and invite other blocks for tournaments.” – (paul)
Flexible Court Design for All Players
Though slightly smaller than a standard pickleball court, sports consultants have deemed it suitable for beginners.
Two nets—one for pickleball and one for badminton—are available, with wheels allowing players to switch between games easily. Shared pickleball racquets and balls have also been provided.
Sinha Roy’s Encouragement
Councillor Sinha Roy praised the initiative, emphasizing the need for accessible sports facilities.
“Parents don’t always have time to take kids to parks, so a court inside the complex is a great idea.” – (Sinha Roy)
Though new to pickleball, she played a few rounds and expressed interest in returning. With excitement growing, Residency Apartments aims to make pickleball a community favorite, offering residents a fun and healthy way to stay active.
News in Brief: Kolkata’s New Pickleball Court
City Centre 1’s Residency Apartments launched a pickleball-cum-badminton court on Republic Day, inaugurated by Councillor Tulsi Sinha Roy.
The initiative provides residents with a dedicated play area, replacing a former dumpyard. Plans are underway for coaching and tournaments, with growing enthusiasm among residents for the sport.
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