Battlefords Pickleball Club Funding Boost: The Battlefords Pickleball Club received $6,000 from the Saskatchewan Senior Fitness Association (SSFA) on Tuesday to support training, new equipment, and club development in Battleford, Saskatchewan. The funding aims to grow the club’s programs and attract more players, especially seniors.
Funding to Grow Pickleball Locally
The SSFA presented the cheque earlier this week following a surplus from its 2024 Games, which were held in the Battlefords. The funds were distributed to several local groups supporting senior activities.
“It’s great to get the funding, we’re a relatively small club with fairly modest finances so, a cash injection like this is really going to help us expand our programming,” said Eric Johnson, incoming secretary of the Battlefords Pickleball Club. “We really plan to use the money to try to attract new players and new members.”
How the Funds Were Shared
According to SSFA games chair Al Gabert, the funding came from leftover resources after the event.
“To decide where the money would be spent, the committee met and took proposals from different groups that also included lawn bowling ($800), curling club ($8,000) and the Rivers West District of the SSFA ($5,000),” he said. “It’s basically provided to the community for senior events.”
Plans for Equipment, Training, and Events
Johnson said the club, which has about 150 members, will likely use the funds for coaching, skill-building, and better gear.
“When you start, you want to play with people that are kind of at your level and improve your skills,” he said. “We will focus on seniors because the money comes from seniors but certainly, we’re not going to limit it anybody that wants to play pickleball.” “That funding will go a long way,” he added, noting plans to upgrade nets, racquets, and support future tournaments.
Promoting Health and Connection Through Pickleball
Gabert praised the impact of local clubs and the rise of pickleball.
“Anything to get seniors active and healthy,” he said. “On the average, most of us is just, you do it for participation,” Gabert added. “It’s something to get out and be active and it’s fun.”
Johnson echoed those thoughts, pointing to the social benefits.
“The people you meet and the comradery that you develop is really great,” he said. “It’s a great way to maintain your fitness in a fun way that’s not tiring or boring.”
News in Brief: Battlefords Pickleball Club Funding Boost
The Battlefords Pickleball Club received $6,000 from the SSFA to improve training, attract new members, and upgrade equipment. The funds came from leftover money from the SSFA’s 2024 Games. The club plans to focus on seniors but welcomes players of all levels to enjoy the sport and stay active.
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