Pickleball is gaining popularity in the Columbia Basin, with new courts opening in towns such as Oasis, Montrose, and Genelle. The latest addition is at Beaver Valley Family Park near Fruitvale, where a new pickleball court has been built, with more planned for June. The project is supported by Columbia Basin Trust.
Growing Recreational Opportunities
Beaver Valley Family Park, a popular year-round recreation site managed by the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary, now features a newly completed pickleball court. The court replaces an old basketball court and was built in about a month. Upgrades included a new asphalt pad, sport-top coating, posts, nets, and fencing.
Mark Daines, regional manager of facilities and recreation, highlighted the park’s increasing popularity.
“The number of people using Beaver Valley Family Park has skyrocketed in recent years”.
“It’s fantastic to see the facilities being used every month of the year.”-(Mark Daines)
The Rise of Pickleball
Pickleball was created in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Its accessibility and low-impact nature make it appealing to both older and younger players.
“The game is quite simple to learn, affordable to play, and easy on the knees, making it ideal for older adults while still exciting for younger players,”-(Mark Daines)
More Courts Coming Soon
This summer, four additional pickleball courts will open inside Beaver Valley Arena during the hockey offseason. The climate-controlled space will provide relief from the summer heat and offer more playing opportunities. With the expansion of courts, the regional district, Columbia Basin Trust, and local communities continue to make recreational activities more accessible.
Beaver Valley Family Park is located near Marsh Creek Campground, about three kilometers east of Fruitvale off Highway 3B.
News in Brief: Pickleball Expansion in Columbia Basin
Pickleball continues to grow in Beaver Valley, with new courts opening at Beaver Valley Family Park near Fruitvale. Supported by Columbia Basin Trust, the project includes a completed outdoor court and four additional indoor courts coming this June. Officials hope the expansion will make recreation more accessible for all ages.
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