Carl Schurz Park Pickleball Conflict: Ongoing fights between pickleball and basketball players at Carl Schurz Park on East 86th Street have led to a new rule from the New York City Parks Department. A new sign now tells players to stay in their own areas, aiming to stop the constant arguments about space.
Disputes Over Shared Play Area Continue
The blacktop at Carl Schurz Park is split between three pickleball courts and a general play area that includes basketball. Trouble started when pickleball players began using the open space a few years ago. The city made it official last year by painting permanent pickleball courts.
Some local residents feel the pickleball players have taken over too much space. Others, especially those who enjoy the sport, say it’s great to have a free place to play. Many park-goers, though, remain neutral.
A new fence now separates the two spaces, with a sign explaining its purpose: “This fence is here to establish designated play spaces. ALL pickleball activity must remain behind this fence.”
Pickleball Players See the Sign as Support
Even though the sign appears to limit pickleball to one side, some players feel it confirms their right to the space.
Chris, who was waiting for a turn to play, said, “They are used to how it was for a long time…people don’t want things to change.” He added that he enjoys pickleball because it’s “a much easier and approachable version of tennis.”
Another pickleball player, who did not want her name shared, said she had played through the worst arguments in early 2023. She remembered one major problem.
“The man would ‘play catch in the middle of our games,” she said. “You’d have kids coming with their scooters, and their skateboards, while we’re playing games. It was crazy.”
Before the official courts were painted, they were marked out by a man known as Albert, who called himself the “Pickleball Doctor.” She said Albert had started something great but caused division later on.
“I think he felt like he built it, and he has the power. Other people felt like, ‘no you don’t,’ it’s public courts and we’re not giving you this power,” she said.
She also said some players left Albert’s group chat and created a new one on WhatsApp.
Basketball Court Conditions Frustrate Players
Basketball players have their own concerns. The court hasn’t been repaved in years, and the nets are missing. Chase, a teen who’s played there for a decade, said he hasn’t seen any real improvements.
“There are little patches of black on the court. That’s them ‘redoing it,” Chase said. “I think they’re more slippery, so that’s why I never go on them.”
He pointed out a hoop with no net and explained that a puddle often forms behind it. “Let’s say you swish the ball, and there’s no net…it goes right into the water,” he said.
News in Brief: Carl Schurz Park Pickleball Conflict
Arguments between pickleball and basketball players continue at Carl Schurz Park. A new Parks Department sign tells players to stay in their zones. Pickleball players feel supported by the new rule, while basketball players remain upset over poor court conditions and lack of maintenance. Tensions remain unresolved.
ALSO READ: Dorval Unveils Free Summer Pickleball Courts—Here’s How to Play at Westwood