Bridgeport’s New Pickleball Courts: After more than six months of anticipation, the new pickleball courts at Hinkle and Deegan Lakes Park in Bridgeport, West Virginia, are officially open to the public. This development marks a significant step forward for the sport in the area, which has seen a surge in popularity. However, local pickleball players argue that the newly opened eight courts are just the beginning, emphasizing the urgent need for additional pickleball facilities.
Demand for Indoor Facilities
Angela Oliverio, a passionate local ambassador for USA Pickleball, highlighted the community’s pressing need for an indoor venue.
“We got our outdoor courts, but we need an indoor facility really bad.” – (Angela Oliverio)
At present, residents seeking indoor pickleball options can turn to the Harrison County YMCA, The Bridge Sports Complex, and the Jewel City Buzz Henderson Center in nearby Shinnston. Unfortunately, these venues come with limitations.
Limited Availability at Existing Venues
While the YMCA and the Buzz Henderson Center do provide dedicated pickleball courts, the availability is sparse. The Bridge Sports Complex only offers pickleball play on its busy basketball courts, which are often occupied due to the Jerry West Basketball League’s activities.
“There are really only opportunities to play pickleball at The Bridge in the morning.” – (Angela Oliverio)
The absence of dedicated indoor pickleball facilities prevents players from enjoying the game year-round, especially during inclement weather.
Community Support for More Courts
Angela Oliverio also emphasized the necessity of additional facilities in surrounding communities, including Shinnston, Grafton, and Stonewood.
“dedicated pickleball facilities in Shinnston, Grafton and Stonewood would be beneficial for offering all communities convenient options for playing America’s fasting growing sport. Trust me: You build them; people will go and play on them. There’s no doubt.” – (Angela Oliverio)
Future Developments at Hinkle and Deegan Lakes Park
Looking ahead, more enhancements are on the way at Hinkle and Deegan Lakes Park. Although there is no set timeline for completion, Bridgeport Parks and Recreation plans to improve parking, install restrooms, and construct a small seating area.
The benches for this seating area were ordered recently and are expected to arrive within two weeks. However, upgrades to restrooms and parking won’t be completed until the following spring, according to Amy Callahan, the Bridgeport Parks and Recreation Coordinator.
Popularity of Pickleball on the Rise
“The popularity of pickleball is nationwide. It’s taken awhile to get into West Virginia, but it’s become hugely popular here, as evidenced by the new courts over there. They’re busy nearly every decent day.” – (Bridgeport City Councilman Jon Griffith)
Social Connections Through Pickleball
The enthusiasm surrounding the sport was evident during a recent round-robin pickleball event at the Veterans Memorial Park pickleball courts in Clarksburg, where two classmates were reunited after more than 50 years.
“It was 55 years since they’d seen one another, and it happened because I had that round robin.” Angela Oliverio recalled, showing the social connections that pickleball fosters in the community.
News in Brief: Bridgeport’s New Pickleball Courts
Bridgeport, West Virginia, has opened eight new pickleball courts at Hinkle and Deegan Lakes Park, but local enthusiasts call for additional facilities, especially indoor options. Angela Oliverio, a USA Pickleball ambassador, highlighted the limited indoor play available at the Harrison County YMCA and other venues.
Plans for further developments at the park include improved parking and restrooms. The sport’s popularity continues to grow, as evidenced by a recent event reuniting friends after decades apart.
ALSO READ: The Rise of Pickleball in Local Towns: From Pickleball Courts to Communities
