Austin Pickleball Courts Fundraising: The Austin Minnesota Area Pickleball Association is raising money to build eight public pickleball courts at Rotary Centennial Park. The effort gained momentum on Saturday as people of all ages played games inside Packer Arena. The group hopes the new courts will meet the growing demand for space.
Paddle Play Highlights Space Shortage
On Saturday, the Packer Arena—usually a hockey rink—was filled with the sound of pickleball. Players waited their turn on the sidelines, showing how much interest there is in the sport.
Joseph Kuchera was among them.
“For physical activity it’s great, I get my workout every weekend, so yeah I can’t complain,” (Joseph Kuchera).
The arena also serves other community needs, including events like the Mower County CEO Tradeshow and Great Pages Circus. However, there are not enough permanent courts for pickleball in Austin.
A Renewed Push After Past Setbacks
Bob Rosel, vice president of the Austin Minnesota Area Pickleball Association, said the group tried to build courts five years ago. But COVID-19 made fundraising and planning nearly impossible.
“It was very difficult to get a hold of anybody and to raise any funds and the whole thing fell apart,”(Bob Rosel).
Now, with new members and funding, the group has renewed its talks with the city.
Austin Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon believes the effort is serious this time. “They really have a good amount of money to bring to the table with a serious, you know, let’s sit down seriously and talk about building pickleball courts,” (Jason Sehon).
“I think we’re close, need a little more nudge to get it over the top.”(Bob Rosel)
News in Brief: Austin Pickleball Courts Fundraising
The Austin Minnesota Area Pickleball Association is working with the city to build eight courts at Rotary Centennial Park. After past delays, the group now has funds and support. As interest in pickleball grows, city leaders and players believe the project is closer than ever to becoming a reality.
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