Seneca’s Pickleball Program: The Shaver Recreation Department introduced pickleball on Thursday, attracting 70 players on its first day. The new activity is part of the department’s efforts to expand its programs in response to community interest.
“We still have two hours left (in the day) and we’ve already had 70 individuals come in,” Seneca Recreation Director C.J. Gleaton said on Thursday.
“They’re still pulling in the parking lot as we speak.” – (C.J. Gleaton)
Community Request Leads to New Offering
Pickleball was a major request from local residents in a community survey conducted last year. Gleaton noted that the department has been working to bring the sport to the area, with hopes of one day securing funding for outdoor courts. The city is currently applying for grants to help with the expansion.
“In our community survey we sent out last year, it was a big request from our community of one of the activities they would love for us to add here for the community. We were just looking at ways to get it here, maybe potentially one day, with funding for some outdoor courts.” – (C.J. Gleaton)
Future Plans for Expansion
For now, pickleball is being offered indoors at Shaver from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Gleaton also hopes to expand the program further once rehabilitation of the former Seneca Middle School property is complete, potentially adding more courts.
“Hopefully, (we can) figure out a way to get the funding, so, hopefully we add that for community. It’s an up and coming sport for pretty much all ages.” – (C.J. Gleaton)
News in Brief: Seneca’s Pickleball Program
Pickleball was introduced at Shaver Recreation Department on Thursday, with 70 people participating. The program, requested by the community, may expand to outdoor pickleball courts if funding is secured. The city is applying for grants and plans to offer the activity from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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