Flowood Celebrates New Pickleball Courts: JACKSON, Miss. – Pickleball enthusiasts in Flowood have a brand-new place to play, as an 18-court pickleball complex has officially opened at Liberty Park. The courts are already buzzing with activity, and the city is celebrating with a major tournament.
Pickleball Popularity Grows in Flowood
Since opening, the courts have seen a steady stream of players eager to enjoy the fast-growing sport. Jessica Wilkinson from Studio 3 visited the facility to learn the game firsthand.
“This 18-court pickleball court that Flowood has just built has already been such a success. People are playing all the time,” Wilkinson said.
Southern Pickleball Hosts “Big Dill” Tournament
To mark the grand opening, Southern Pickleball is hosting the inaugural Big Dill Pickleball Tournament this weekend. The event has drawn 195 registered players and is expected to fill the courts with intense competition and fun for spectators.
“Pretty much all of them are gonna be used,” said Daniel Lang from the Flowood Economic Development. “It’s gonna be a great time. A lot of activities for families, for friends. Just come out and enjoy the social sport.”
Why Pickleball Appeals to All Ages
The tournament highlights pickleball’s wide appeal across generations.
“Everybody can play it from ages five to all the way to 95,” Lang said. “You don’t have a lot of movement, but you’re still healthy and active. So it’s a great opportunity to bring people together.”
Southern Pickleball Ensures Professional Tournament Experience
To ensure a well-run event, Flowood partnered with Southern Pickleball, the largest amateur and professional pickleball tournament organizer in the country.
“They have over 80 tournaments a year, over 25,000 people participating, and they know how to run it professionally,” Lang added. “We wanted to partner with them to come out and have a good time.”
Rain Plan in Place for the Tournament
With outdoor events subject to weather conditions, Flowood Alderman Kathy Smith confirmed that there is a backup plan in case of rain.
“If it rains too much tomorrow, then they would just call it off and then come back first thing Sunday morning and start as weather permits,” Smith said.
News in Brief: Flowood Celebrates New Pickleball Courts
Flowood’s new 18-court pickleball complex at Liberty Park is now open, with players already enjoying the courts. The Big Dill Pickleball Tournament, hosted by Southern Pickleball, has nearly 200 participants. The event welcomes all ages, and city officials have a rain plan in place to ensure the tournament runs smoothly.
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