Pickleball Thrives in Oxford: A pickleball tournament in Oxford last weekend drew 118 players and their families, bringing tourism dollars to the city. Hosted at the newly built outdoor courts near the Civic Center, the event showcased the city’s growing pickleball community and economic impact.
Oxford built eight outdoor courts nearly a year ago, adding to an existing indoor court at Friendship Community Center. The tournament was sponsored by the 256-Pickleball Club, which has about 85 members from Calhoun and surrounding counties, including Jefferson County.
Players Compete Despite Weather Challenges
Participants, ranging from ages 10 to over 70, played singles and doubles matches. Despite inclement weather on Saturday night, the tournament resumed on Sunday, allowing players to complete their matches.
Kipp Chappell, 55, the pickleball events coordinator for Oxford Parks and Recreation, and Mike Harris, 58, a volunteer pickleball ambassador for Calhoun County, were pleased with the turnout. The event drew players who stayed at local hotels, dined at restaurants, and purchased fuel, benefiting the local economy.
Harris, an experienced player, competes in tournaments across the Southeast and teaches pickleball annually. Chappell is a certified instructor specializing in beginner classes.
Oxford’s Pickleball Growth and Future Plans
Pickleball offers health benefits and requires less movement than tennis, making it appealing to a broad audience. The Oxford courts include fences to help players focus and windscreens to improve playing conditions.
“Players liked the atmosphere at our courts. I want to give thanks to Oxford Parks and Rec. for building the courts so more people become aware of pickleball and learn to play.” – (Harris)
Beginner classes will start soon, with sessions lasting six weeks for about $20. Classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays at the community center, with another season planned for the fall.
News in Brief: Pickleball Thrives in Oxford
A pickleball tournament in Oxford brought 118 players and tourism revenue to the city. Hosted at the new outdoor courts, the event, supported by the 256-Pickleball Club, overcame weather challenges. Organizers praised the turnout, and beginner classes will start soon at the community center, continuing the sport’s local growth.
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