Brecksville’s Pickleball Craze Gains Momentum: Since opening on October 24, Brecksville’s new outdoor pickleball courts have quickly become a hub of activity. Located near Kids Quarters on the community center campus, the four courts are part of the city’s efforts to enhance recreational opportunities for residents. Recreation Director Rachele Engle emphasized their role in promoting fitness and community engagement.
“I’m excited to add this amazing facility for all ages to the vast offerings the Brecksville Recreation Department has for the community. The pickleball courts are an excellent start to the Kids Quarters renovation.” – (Rachele Engle)
Growing Popularity Among Residents
Pickleball’s rise in Brecksville has been undeniable. George Themelis, a local player, shared that the sport has attracted around 320 players through the TeamReach app, with most participants hailing from Brecksville and nearby communities. The courts operate free of charge, allowing players to rotate during games.
“We even played right after the ribbon cutting on that very first day. We all contact each other on an app called TeamReach to find out who wants to get together to play. We have 320 members and I think about 200 to 250 of them are from Brecksville with the others coming from nearby.” – (George Themelis)
Brecksville resident Elizabeth Themelis highlighted the accessibility of the sport, noting that even without official leagues, open play keeps the courts busy.
“Having these outdoor courts offers open play and it’s free of charge. During open play, you can have a whole bunch of people come to participate and rotate every five minutes.” – (Elizabeth Themelis)
A Journey to Better Pickleball Facilities
Brecksville’s embrace of pickleball began modestly. Scott Campbell recalled early efforts when players chalked lines on basketball courts. Later, painted lines were added, but initial designs faced challenges, such as incorrect orientation leading to sun issues.
“He was a snowbird who lived part time in Florida and it had become popular there. So we would go to the old basketball courts in Brecksville and we would take chalk and hand draw the pickleball lines.” – (Scott Campbell)
The arrival of Rachele Engle as recreation director marked a turning point. Her openness to collaboration with pickleball players paved the way for the newly constructed courts. Outdoor courts allow for play beyond designated hours. Plans to install lights by spring will further extend playtime.
“But the lines weren’t put down correctly and they were laid out north to south instead of east to west so the sun was a problem. But then three years ago when Rachele Engle became our new recreation director, she was very open to working with pickleball players.” – (Scott Campbell)
The Appeal of Pickleball
Combining elements of tennis with unique rules, pickleball’s simple yet engaging nature has fueled its popularity. It requires strategic play, including mandatory bounces on both sides before volleys and restrictions on volleying within the “kitchen.”
Mayor Daryl Kingston praised the courts as a space for fostering fun, fitness, and friendships, reflecting the city’s commitment to an active lifestyle for its residents.
“These courts are open for all to enjoy the fun, fitness and friendships this sport offers.” – (Daryl)
News in Brief: Brecksville’s Pickleball Craze Gains Momentum
Brecksville’s new pickleball courts, opened October 24, have become a popular destination. Located near Kids Quarters, the courts provide free access and promote community engagement. Enthusiasts like George and Elizabeth Themelis highlight the social and fitness benefits of the sport, which is growing in popularity.
Early challenges with basketball court conversions led to the construction of four purpose-built courts. Plans for lighting will allow for extended play hours, further enhancing the facility’s appeal.
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