Berea Demands More pickleball Courts: Rising Chorus

Berea Demands More pickleball Courts: The perception that pickleball is just for “old people” is a myth that Cindy Dreibelbis is determined to dispel. As president of the Berea Pickleball Association, Dreibelbis, along with Sue Ann Miller, the association’s secretary/treasurer, recently met with potential players at the Berea Library to address misconceptions and explain the appeal of what has been called the fastest-growing sport in America.

In Berea, pickleball’s popularity is on the rise. The city boasts three indoor pickleball courts at the Berea Recreation Center, two outdoor public pickleball courts at Parknoll Park, and four outdoor courts at Berea-Midpark Middle School. Despite this, it’s not enough to meet the growing demand.

Expanding Facilities and Benefits

To address the need for more facilities, the Berea Pickleball Association is actively raising funds to build additional pickleball courts. “We’ve looked all over the area (for locations),” Dreibelbis said, “but we’re Bereans. We want to stay in Berea.”

Sue Ann Miller emphasized the multiple benefits of playing pickleball, highlighting its role in providing good exercise, aiding in weight loss, and enhancing muscle strength and flexibility. Beyond the physical benefits, Miller pointed to the social aspect, stating, “It’s just plain fun.”

The origins of pickleball trace back to 1965, when two fathers in Washington State invented the game to keep some bored teens occupied. According to Dreibelbis, they used an old badminton net, a Wiffle ball, and some table tennis paddles, naming the game after the family dog, Pickles. Over time, the game’s rules evolved, the net was lowered, and the ball was downsized. Initially popular on the West Coast, the game eventually spread eastward.

Dreibelbis recounted how her own journey with pickleball began in Arizona during a visit to her uncle, who introduced her to the sport. She brought her newfound passion back to Berea, where it has flourished.

Appeal Across Generations and Digital Expansion

Addressing the misconception about age, Dreibelbis noted the existence of professional pickleball leagues for all age groups, with the top female player in the U.S. being 17 and the top male player 25. The sport’s popularity is underscored by notable team owners, including NBA star LeBron James and Cleveland Browns player Myles Garrett. It’s also embraced by younger generations; Berea Library Branch Manager Kalyn Kapelman recalled playing pickleball in high school gym class.

The sport’s digital presence is strong, with a dedicated app and YouTube channel for enthusiasts. During their presentation at the library, Dreibelbis and Miller set up a mini pickleball court, allowing potential players to experience the paddles and ball firsthand. “Most games are doubles,” Miller explained. “You can cover the court with four people without killing yourself.”

For those searching for pickleball courts near me, the Berea community offers several options. The dimensions of pickleball courts adhere to standard measurements, ensuring a consistent playing experience. The not-for-profit Berea Pickleball Association, founded in 2023, continues to promote the sport and expand its reach within the community, reflecting its commitment to fostering both physical activity and social interaction.