Pickleball Clinics Fire Up McCandless: As the leaves begin to turn, pickleball enthusiasts in McCandless are gearing up for the final weeks of play at Devlin Park. With the onset of colder weather, the community is making the most of the pickleball courts before they close for the season. The recent addition of clinics is helping to keep the courts buzzing with activity and excitement.
Busy Courts at Devlin Park
Since opening in the spring of 2023, the four pickleball courts at Devlin Park have seen consistent use. Abby Lucostic, the parks and recreation director for McCandless, noted, “They have been busy all season.” On October 3, local player Jack Demos from Fox Chapel enjoyed a match with friends, remarking,
“It’s a great facility. The courts are very, very nice, and the play is great.” – (Demos)
Final Clinics for Players of All Levels
For those looking to sharpen their skills as the season winds down, McCandless will hold two final days of pickleball clinics. These include a Level 1 Intro and a Level 2 Intro clinic. According to Abby Lucostic, the Level 2 pickleball clinic is a fantastic option for players who have previously attended the introduction clinic taught by instructor Dana Kantz.
Newcomers are welcome to join two beginner-only Round Robin sessions at 10 a.m. on October 12 and 27. Registration is required, with a cost of $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents.
The clinics on October 13 and 26 at Devlin Park will cater to different skill levels. The Level 1 clinic runs from 10 a.m. to noon, costing $15 for residents and $20 for non-residents. Level 2, scheduled from noon to 2 p.m., costs $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents. Note that participants must have completed the Level 1 clinic before joining Level 2.
Streamlined Registration System
Earlier this year, the town introduced an online registration system, allowing residents to easily reserve and rent pickleball courts. This move aims to enhance accessibility and encourage more players to join the fun.
Kantz, the director of pickleball at Pure Athletex in Marshall, brings over five years of experience to her role. She has organized various pickleball events, including social mixers and mini-tournaments. Additionally, she became an ambassador for the U.S. Amateur Pickleball Association in 2018. Abby Lucostic highlighted the community’s fortune in having her lead the clinics.
“We’re lucky to have her in McCandless.” – (Abby Lucostic)
Park Improvements Enhance the Community Experience
In addition to the pickleball courts, McCandless has made improvements to other facilities. The basketball court and two tennis courts at Devlin Park were resurfaced and reopened to the public in spring 2023, further enriching the recreational offerings in the area.
News in Brief: Pickleball Clinics Fire Up McCandless
As pickleball season winds down in McCandless, Devlin Park continues to buzz with activity. The four courts, opened in spring 2023, are busy hosting games. Parks and Recreation Director Abby Lucostic reports strong usage throughout the season. Final clinics include Level 1 and Level 2 sessions led by instructor Dana Kantz, with beginner Round Robin sessions scheduled for October 12 and 27.
Registration is required, with fees ranging from $5 to $25 depending on residency and clinic level. Recent improvements also include resurfaced basketball and tennis courts, enhancing recreational opportunities for the community.
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