New Pickleball Courts Debut in La Salle: On September 11, 2024, Hegeler Park in La Salle officially opened six new pickleball courts, marking a significant development for local sports enthusiasts. The grand opening ceremony saw over 30 pickleball players, city officials, and residents come together to celebrate the occasion. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, with participants expressing their excitement about the new facility.
Community Impact
Tom Hinkey, a member of the Illinois Valley Pickleball Club from Spring Valley, emphasized the benefits of the new courts for the local pickleball community.
“Everybody is going to get a chance to play. We get people from Mendota, Ottawa, and Streator. So, this will bring even more people over.” – (Hinkey)
The addition of LED lighting and a practice board ensures that players can enjoy the facility from early morning until late evening, with access available in two-hour intervals.
Facility Features
The new courts at Hegeler Park include advanced features such as LED lighting, which activates at 5 a.m., and side protectors to prevent balls from rolling away. Hinkey highlighted the appeal of these amenities, noting, “This is the new spot for the Illinois Valley Pickleball players.” The courts also feature a practice board, enhancing the training experience for players of all levels.
City Officials’ Remarks
Mayor Jeff Grove expressed pride in the city’s latest addition, attributing the success of the project to Park and Recreation Director Lynda Kasik.
“She came to us with the idea. And I appreciate the council being on board with it. It’s nice because it’s really for all ages – it’s for everybody.” – (Grove)
Additionally, Grove mentioned that the council will consider expanding the pickleball facilities with four more courts at Rotary Park in an upcoming meeting.
News in Brief: New Pickleball Courts Debut in La Salle
La Salle has opened six new pickleball courts at Hegeler Park, celebrated with a grand opening on September 11, 2024. Over 30 attendees, including pickleball players and city officials, participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The courts feature LED lighting, a practice board, and side protectors.
Tom Hinkey of the Illinois Valley Pickleball Club anticipates increased player turnout from surrounding areas. Mayor Jeff Grove praised Park and Recreation Director Lynda Kasik for her role in the project and hinted at a potential expansion with additional courts at Rotary Park.
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