Elementary School Revamps Pickleball Courts: After nearly two years of planning and fundraising, Sandhills Farm Life Elementary School has successfully renovated its 45-year-old tennis courts, transforming them into a creative play space and pickleball courts for students and the community. The old courts, which were cracked and unsafe for use, have now been revitalized into a multi-purpose recreational area.
“Our school is limited on outdoor space, and the courts were not being used because of their hazardous conditions with cracks.” – (Kendall Smith)
Pickleball Brings New Energy to the School
Recognizing the limited outdoor space available at the school, PE and health teacher Kendall Smith saw an opportunity to introduce pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.
“Our goal is to grow the pickleball game in the community.” – (Smith)
The upgraded area now features three pickleball courts, along with spaces for basketball, Tic Tac Toe, hopscotch, and four square, creating a versatile play area for all students.
Community Support and Grants Made It Possible
The project was a joint effort, with teachers, families, and the PTA working together to secure funding and support. Fundraisers were held, and local communities donated paddles and balls to help Smith start teaching pickleball indoors during gym classes. TNT Asphalt, based in Southern Pines, completed the court repairs.
“This would not have been possible without all the support from Sandhills Farm Life employees and families. This is a sport that all age groups and athletic abilities can enjoy together.” – (Smith)
The school also secured two grants to support the project:
- The Bright Ideas Grant awarded $1,500, which will be used for equipment in the creative play area.
- The USA Pickleball “Grow the Game” Grant provided outdoor nets, 50 paddles, and 100 balls, making Sandhills Farm Life one of just 51 schools to receive this grant.
Students Love the Game
After introducing pickleball to her physical education classes last year, Smith noticed how much her students enjoyed the game.
“I remember after teaching pickleball indoors, one of my students thanked me for teaching it because it allowed them to play with their grandparents from Florida. This is exactly what we want to help create and promote.” – (Smith)
Students have eagerly embraced the sport. Kinsley Phillips, Clemmons Sheffield, Sage Bahme, and Gavin Smith were seen enjoying the new courts with their brand-new equipment, showcasing how the game brings people together.
A Few Final Touches Left
The renovation is nearly complete, with only a few finishing touches remaining. Once done, the school’s outdoor space will serve as a vibrant recreational area that will benefit students and the community for years to come.
News in Brief: Elementary School Revamps Pickleball Courts
Sandhills Farm Life Elementary School has transformed its old, unusable tennis courts into a multi-purpose play area featuring three pickleball courts. The two-year project was supported by fundraisers, community donations, and two grants. Students love the sport, and the courts are expected to be fully completed soon.
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