Pickleball Hits Fairfield Glade: As pickleball continues its rise across the U.S., it’s making a particularly notable impact in the Fairfield Glade community. With the sport’s popularity surging, the area is set to see its pickleball player count soar past the 1,000 mark by the end of the year.
William Taylor, Fairfield Glade’s Director of Racquet Sports, highlighted the explosive growth: “As of probably the end of this year, we should have over 1,000 pickleball players here in the community.” The sport’s appeal lies not only in its competitive edge but also in its strong social component.
Chuck Black, a local enthusiast, shared his personal transformation: “When I moved here, I didn’t know anybody. Now, I know hundreds of people. Very social. Very friendly.” For Black, pickleball has been a gateway to a vibrant community.
Mark Cunningham, another dedicated player, has a deeply personal connection to the game. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s nearly seven years ago, Cunningham credits pickleball with providing him a sense of normalcy and peace. “I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s almost seven years ago,” said Cunningham. “I really think it was a God thing that I found pickleball right at the same time I got diagnosed.” The rhythmic pop of the paddle against the ball offers him a unique form of therapy.
Cunningham emphasized the therapeutic benefits of the sport: “I think on the court. I don’t even really feel like I have it. My doctors would say that definitely there is a lot of data out there that pickleball and large movement kinds of activities have been proven clinically to slow down the progression.” His determination to stay on the court underscores pickleball’s role as a “sport for life.”
The community’s dedication extends beyond the courts. Fairfield Glade Pickleball Ambassadors are actively involved in fundraising efforts for various foundations. A notable example includes their support for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which funds research aimed at finding a cure for Parkinson’s.
News in Brief: Pickleball Hits Fairfield Glade
In Fairfield Glade, Tenn., pickleball is surging in popularity, with the community expected to surpass 1,000 players by year-end. The sport’s appeal lies in its social benefits and therapeutic potential. Chuck Black highlights how pickleball has helped him forge connections, while Mark Cunningham, who has Parkinson’s, credits the sport with aiding his well-being and slowing disease progression. Fairfield Glade Pickleball Ambassadors are also making a difference by fundraising for causes like the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which supports Parkinson’s research. This vibrant pickleball scene is enriching lives and fostering community spirit.
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