Pickleball Craze Overtakes Sunset Park: The rising popularity of pickleball at Sunset Park in Sturgeon Bay has sparked a request for more court space. On March 26, Door County Pickleball Club President Jay Renstrom asked the city’s Parks and Recreation Committee to allow temporary pickleball lines on one of the park’s two tennis courts.
Proposal for Additional Pickleball Courts
Renstrom proposed painting pickleball lines on one tennis court to create up to four extra courts using portable nets. He assured the committee that this would only be a temporary setup, available during morning hours or special tournaments.
“I love tennis, I grew up playing tennis [and] I don’t want to see tennis go away. It’s just to have us, at no expense – either labor or materials to the city – painting pickleball lines. We would put four courts – two on each side of the tennis net – and have that available only during the mornings, or maybe during a tournament and something where they might be used.” – (Renstrom)
Renstrom explained that the extra courts would help accommodate players when the existing seven courts are full, allowing families and new players to try the sport without disrupting others.
Balancing Pickleball and Tennis Use
City Public Works/Parks Director Mike Barker acknowledged the growth of pickleball at Sunset Park but noted that he had received complaints about players “taking over” the area.
“There had to be a certain level of truth there behind it, or people wouldn’t have called me.” – (Mike Barker)
Committee member Shauna Blackledge suggested adding signs at the park to help organize court use. She described the popularity of pickleball as a “good problem to have.” No official decision was made, as the matter was only discussed during the meeting.
News in Brief: Pickleball Craze Overtakes Sunset Park
Sunset Park’s growing pickleball scene has led to a request for more courts. On March 26, the Door County Pickleball Club proposed adding temporary lines to a tennis court. Officials discussed concerns about balancing space for all players. No decision was made, but the topic remains under review.
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