Pickleball Arrives in Valier: Residents of Valier now have a new way to stay active as Valier High School opens its pickleball courts to the public for free. The pickleball courts, set up in the Multi-purpose Room, are available on weekends from noon to 2 p.m. and Tuesdays from 4-8 p.m., with all equipment provided.
A Growing Sport with Deep Roots
Pickleball, a sport that has gained immense popularity in recent years, was created in 1965 by John Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell as a way to entertain their families.
The game evolved when they experimented with different balls and paddles on a badminton court, eventually lowering the net to make the game more accessible.
How Pickleball Came to Valier High School
The idea for the courts started when Stacey O’Neal, a teacher at Valier High, suggested introducing pickleball to Superintendent Josh Reed. O’Neal had attended a class on the sport in the summer of 2024 and believed it would be a great addition for students and community members.
Reed immediately supported the idea and secured funding through 3 Rivers Communications, which awarded the school a $1,000 grant to purchase equipment.
“This was the easiest grant application ever,” said Reed, emphasizing the school’s excitement about the project.
Opportunities for Students and the Community
Valier High students now enjoy pickleball in PE classes and during Friday Study Hall, a reward for students with a B or higher in all classes and no missing assignments.
“We’ve had good interest,” Reed reported, noting that many community members have taken advantage of the opportunity.
The pickleball courts are open for public use every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. and on Tuesdays from 4-8 p.m., accommodating up to eight players at a time.
“You can really show up anytime from 4-8 p.m. on Tuesdays. If it really catches on, we might be able to hold some tournaments in the future.” – (O’Neal)
How to Join the Fun
Pickleball is a beginner-friendly sport that can be played as singles or doubles. It requires a small court, a light paddle, and a larger ball, making it an ideal activity for all ages.
Interested participants only need to bring athletic shoes. They can enter through the school’s main entrance and start playing.
News in Brief: Pickleball Arrives in Valier
Valier High School has opened its pickleball courts to the public for free, with play available on weekends and Tuesdays. The initiative, led by Stacey O’Neal and Superintendent Josh Reed, aims to promote healthy activity for students and community members. The school received a $1,000 grant to fund the project.
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