Midland Becomes a Pickleball Hotspot: Pickleball, a sport growing rapidly in the U.S., is gaining momentum in Midland. The Greater Midland Tennis Center is expanding its facilities to meet demand, adding seven outdoor courts. The city is also preparing to host a national tournament, bringing professional competition to the area.
Midland residents of all ages are embracing pickleball, drawn to its accessibility and social nature. The Greater Midland Tennis Center offers beginner classes, including Pickleball 101, led by tennis player Mike Rose. “I can teach somebody in about an hour,” Rose said, highlighting the sport’s ease of learning.
A Sport for All Ages
Contrary to common belief, pickleball is not just for older adults. The largest age group playing in the U.S. is 25-34, while the fastest-growing segment is 18-25. “What you’re seeing now is it’s starting to become a sport for all ages,” said Greater Midland President and CEO Terri Johnson.
The sport is available at multiple local venues, including the Greater Midland Community Center and Coleman Family Center. Midland’s community courts are often full, and organized groups, like the “Early Risers,” gather at the Tennis Center for early morning games.
“I’ve seen so many friendships created through this game.” – (rose)
Growth and Expansion
To keep up with the demand, the Tennis Center has invested in additional courts with funding from a $600,000 grant from the Great Lakes Bay Region Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“We’re just making sure we’re providing opportunities for the high-growth interest in pickleball.” – (Johnson)
Pickleball events are also increasing. A recent tournament hosted by the Tennis Center featured teams from local clubs. Additionally, businesses are using pickleball for team-building exercises, further solidifying its role in the community.
Midland Set to Host National Tournament
Midland is preparing for a professional pickleball event. The Tennis Center has reached an agreement with the Association of Pickleball Professionals to host a Golden Ticket event from August 13-17.
“If you win your division at a Golden Ticket, you gain an automatic berth to the nationals at the end of the year in Naples, Florida.” – (Executive Director Jeff Rekeweg)
The event is expected to draw 1,000 to 1,500 players. Rose is excited about the opportunity.
“I hope the community and the Great Lakes Bay Region see this as a huge opportunity to put pickleball on the map.” – (Jeff Rekeweg)
More Than Just a Sport
For many players, pickleball offers more than exercise. “I call it my therapy,” said Mighty Itauma, a member of the Early Risers group. Linda Kim-Habermehl, a former tennis player, switched to pickleball due to knee issues and is now “totally addicted to pickleball.”
With pickleball’s growing presence in Midland, the sport is set to become a staple alongside other popular activities like tennis, curling, and golf.
News in Brief: Midland Becomes a Pickleball Hotspot
Pickleball is rising in Midland, with the Greater Midland Tennis Center expanding courts and hosting a major national tournament in August. The sport attracts players of all ages and is growing as a social and fitness activity. Pickleball events, including tournaments and corporate team-building sessions, are becoming more common throughout the city.
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