Outdoor Pickleball Destination in Hudson: A small group of dedicated individuals transformed a simple idea into a thriving community hub in Hudson. It all began when John DeGraff and his wife, Deanne, along with other residents, established the Hudson Community Pickleball Association (HCPA) in 2017. What started as a handful of players has now blossomed into a vibrant club boasting over 400 members, prompting the organization to cap membership due to the limited capacity of its six pickleball courts at Camp St. Croix.
The Rise of Pickleball in Hudson
According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, pickleball has been recognized as the fastest-growing sport in the United States for the third consecutive year. This trend is reflected in Hudson, where the sport has captured the hearts of many.
“Everybody says it’s a slower game, but I think it’s a faster game.” John DeGraff noted, drawing a comparison to tennis.
“You don’t have to run quite as much, but you still have to move. Stops and starts — there’s a lot of stopping and starting.” – (John DeGraff)
For John DeGraff, a former college tennis player at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, pickleball first came to life at the Hudson YMCA. As the Hudson Community Pickleball Association’s history reveals, locals began playing the sport in 2012 with just four to six beginners utilizing two indoor courts. “And that group grew from there.” Deanne recalled, marking the beginning of what would become a tight-knit community.
Crafting a Diverse Club Experience
The HCPA prides itself on offering a range of skill levels and match types to its members. Julie Graber highlighted the social groups that meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, emphasizing that, “they choose to not be Olympic-type competitors.” However, as the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts to one of fierce competition.
The leagues include various formats such as the Men’s Fall League, Women’s Fall League, and mixed doubles, along with a unique dinking tournament designed to hone players’ soft shot techniques. The pickleball club even boasts a ball machine to help members enhance their skills.
“But doing those areas, we pretty much get everybody comfortable and they get a chance to play at the level they get to play at.” – (Julie Graber)
This sense of inclusivity and adaptability is what sets HCPA apart from other clubs.
A Commitment to Community and Safety
The commitment to maintaining a high-quality playing environment is evident in the efforts made by club members. For example, during rainy days, the Hudson Community Pickleball Association employs squeegees to dry the courts, echoing the meticulous work of a baseball team’s grounds crew.
Additionally, the club prioritizes safety by providing a defibrillator, ensuring that members are trained to use it in case of emergencies. Transitioning from the indoor YMCA to six outdoor pickleball courts was no small feat.
The Hudson Community Pickleball Association successfully raised over $90,000 through fundraising, donations, and grants to build these state-of-the-art pickleball courts at Camp St. Croix, as reported by the Star-Observer before the club’s ribbon-cutting ceremony in June 2022.
Prior to this development, the club relied on local parks’ tennis courts for outdoor play. The partnership with YMCA Camp St. Croix has proven beneficial for both parties, as the camp allowed the repurposing of its tennis courts while retaining certain reserved times for its own use.
In 2024, the board plans to convene to discuss the future of the partnership and address any concerns that may arise as the sport’s popularity continues to surge. For local members, the cost of membership remains an attractive option at just $40 per year, especially compared to the typical $20 to $45 charged for a single session at private courts like Lucky Shots and Smash Park.
A Family-Like Atmosphere
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the Hudson Community Pickleball Association is the sense of belonging it fosters among its members.
“We’re like a family. So sometimes there are little tiffs, but we all get along.” – (club board member Carol Cumming)
This familial bond, combined with engaging events and a welcoming community, has been a significant draw for members who join and remain invested in the club.
News in Brief: Outdoor Pickleball Destination in Hudson
The Hudson Community Pickleball Association (HCPA) has transformed from a small group of players into a vibrant community with over 400 members since its beginning in 2017.
With six outdoor pickleball courts at Camp St. Croix, the club offers diverse leagues and social groups while promoting safety and inclusivity. Club members enjoy a family-like atmosphere, making it a popular destination for pickleball in Hudson.
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