Local Demand Outpaces Supply
Ken Sherman, the town’s Director of Recreation, underscored the sport’s rapid rise: “We put in four [near Walter Panas High School] a couple of years ago and got swamped with phone calls indicating that we need more.” The courts are free for residents, with non-residents allowed as guests. Park rangers enforce the rules during summer, but Sherman noted, “If we enforced it with an attendant checking IDs, we’d have to charge people.”
Converting Spaces for Pickleball
In response to growing demand, Sherman’s department converted a roller hockey rink near the train station into five courts last fall. “They had a league, it was really popular and then it just died,” Sherman remarked, explaining why the lights now stay on until 10:30 p.m. for pickleball players.
Broad Appeal and Accessibility
Mike Vaccaro, a Cortlandt resident, highlighted the sport’s broad appeal: “It’s communal and accessible. It doesn’t matter, man, woman, young, old, or skill level. Everyone can get something out of playing.” With just a ball, paddle, and court, players engage in a low-key, yet engaging game, characterized by underhand serves and a compact playing area.
Pickleball Expansion in Peekskill
Peekskill’s four new pickleball courts in DePew Park were slated to open in July, with plans to charge a nominal fee for attendant support and court reservations. “Pickleball Paul” Pacchiana, who runs clinics and camps in the area, expressed a desire to sponsor tournaments, though nothing is finalized. “For some people, it’s like an addiction or a disease,” he said. “They play for hours and hours,” likening the fervor to a wholesome cult.
Community Impact and Controversy
Most players are drawn to the social and physical benefits rather than high-level competition. Elena Baldo of Cortlandt captured the sport’s allure: “It’s easy to be good at it, but it’s hard to be great.”
Not everyone is thrilled with the sport’s expansion. At the train station courts, remnants from the site’s skate park days include a handwritten note criticizing the skateboarding ban: “Shame on you. You take away a safe place to skate and are unwilling to coexist. Skate wheels do not cause damage, no worse than racquets or shoes. Bicycles maybe do. Your selfishness is disappointing.”
Pickleball’s Growing Community
Sherman pointed out that there is a town skateboard park at the Muriel H. Morabito Community Center. On any given day, the pickleball courts host a diverse mix of ages and abilities. Some players gimp along, while others move like gazelles. Despite differing skill levels, everyone gets a workout and enjoys the camaraderie.
Pacchiana reflected on the sport’s community impact: “When I talk with people about pickleball, and a lot of devotees can’t stop talking about it, you would not believe the emotion that comes forth. A lot of people, some of them retired and lonely, are finding friends and community.”
