A Community’s Enthusiasm
Among the attendees was Marylou Mileck, a Sebastopol resident, who was impressed by the turnout and provided this detailed report:
75 Sebastopodlians gathered at the Brook Haven courts by Libby Park for the Sports Basement Pickleball Demo Day. The event saw a mix of seasoned players and newcomers. The universal appeal of pickleball was evident, with players of all ages participating enthusiastically. Sports Basement equipped the event with paddles for trial, informative materials, coupons, and refreshments, ensuring everyone had a chance to join in the fun.
“Despite the fact that we’re open seven days a week, we still get people that claim that we don’t have enough hours open for them to pick up their holdsWe already had somebody asking about it, like, ‘You know, this is great. I’d love to be able to come at nine o’clock when I’m commuting in from someplace and get my books.’”-(JOHN KOETZNER)
Opportunities for Beginners
For those new to pickleball, the Finley Community Center offers free introductory courses every Wednesday and Friday morning. The game is not only enjoyable and easy to learn but also builds a welcoming community atmosphere. With affordable equipment—a paddle and a couple of balls—you’re set for both exercise and social interaction.
Improving Local Pickleball Facilities
Currently, Sebastopol lacks dedicated pickleball courts, a situation that drives many players to neighboring areas with better facilities. Two potential solutions are under consideration for enhancing pickleball access in Sebastopol:
- Brook Haven Courts Revamp: The quickest option involves reconfiguring two of the three tennis courts at Brook Haven. This change would create six pickleball courts, retaining one for tennis. Local tennis players would also have access to Analy’s courts and those at Ragle Park.
- Dedicated Pickleball Courts at Ragle Park: Another possibility is establishing dedicated pickleball courts at Ragle Park, where there appears to be adequate space. This would require some fundraising, but it’s a feasible option, given the recent success of similar projects in Occidental, where four dedicated courts were developed in collaboration with Sonoma County Regional Parks.
News in Brief: Pickleball Demo In Sebastopol
The Sports Basement’s pickleball demo in Sebastopol was a major success, drawing 75 locals to Brook Haven courts near Libby Park. The event, highlighted in our “What’s Happening this Week in Sebastopol?” feature, showcased pickleball’s broad appeal, with participants ranging from seasoned players to enthusiastic newcomers.
Marylou Mileck, a local resident, praised the turnout, noting the event’s engaging atmosphere. For beginners, the Finley Community Center offers free introductory classes twice a week. Sebastopol currently lacks dedicated pickleball courts, leading to plans for expanding facilities. Options include revamping Brook Haven’s tennis courts into pickleball courts or adding new courts at Ragle Park. The strong community interest signals a promising future for local pickleball.
