Groveport’s Grand Pickleball Courts: Groveport has long been a hotspot for pickleball enthusiasts, and the city’s appeal just grew with the opening of its new pickleball courts. The city celebrated the grand opening of the courts on August 23, and the new facility promises to enhance Groveport’s reputation as a top-tier pickleball destination.
The outdoor courts, a $1.1 million investment, are located in Groveport Park at 7370 Groveport Road. “These are top-of-the-line pickleball courts,” said Mayor Lance Westcamp at the ceremony. The excitement was echoed by City Administrator B.J. King, who added,
“This is very exciting for us. We are very proud of what we have here and how it enhances Groveport Park. These may be the best pickleball courts in central Ohio.”
Grand Opening Draws Crowd
A crowd of dedicated pickleball players gathered to celebrate the ribbon-cutting event, where Mayor Westcamp, joined by city council members Becky Hutson, Jean Ann Hilbert, and Scott Lockett, officially opened the new facility.
The courts feature eight premium pickleball courts, covering over 2,400 square yards, with top-quality surfaces, fencing, and a range of amenities like a 600-square-yard concrete patio, sidewalks, water service, and electrical receptacles. Players can enjoy night play thanks to the addition of light poles and luminaires.
“These courts were designed by pickleball players for pickleball players,” noted City Councilman Scott Lockett, who is also a member of the Groveport Pickleball Club. “Our goal was to make Groveport a major pickleball destination, and this is a major step towards that.”
A Community Hub for Pickleball Enthusiasts
The new courts will be open daily from dawn until 11 p.m., and while the Groveport Recreation Department has priority for programming, open play times will be posted. To book court time or find out about games, players can visit the Groveport Pickleball Club’s Facebook page.
Lockett, reflecting on the club’s growth since its founding a year and a half ago, emphasized the inclusivity of the sport. “Pickleball is a sport for all ages,” he said, welcoming players of all skill levels from Groveport and surrounding communities like southeast Columbus, Pickerington, Canal Winchester, and Lancaster.
Upcoming Tournament to Show Groveport’s New Courts
On September 14 and 15, the new facility will host the Groveport Pickleball Classic, expected to draw over 200 players. Lockett shared that the tournament will feature participants of varying skill levels, from beginners to advanced competitors. Meanwhile, Groveport’s older courts at Degenhart Park will remain available, sharing space with tennis courts for dual play.
Pickleball, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has rapidly grown in popularity across the country. Players hit a plastic ball similar to a wiffle ball with paddles, creating a signature “pock” sound that resonates across courts.
“I like pickleball because it’s fun, it gets me looking forward to exercise, and provides an outlet for competition,” said Lockett, summing up the growing passion for the sport.
News in Brief: Groveport’s Grand Pickleball Courts
Groveport opened its new $1.1 million pickleball courts at Groveport Park on August 23, enhancing the city’s appeal to pickleball players. The facility includes eight courts with modern amenities, and the courts are open daily from dawn until 11 p.m. City officials, led by Mayor Lance Westcamp, expressed excitement about the new courts, calling them some of the best in central Ohio.
The Groveport Pickleball Classic tournament will take place at the courts on September 14-15, featuring over 200 participants. Pickleball enthusiasts can visit the Groveport Pickleball Club Facebook page for updates.
also read: Best Pickleball Courts in Powell River: Boosting Sport
