Pickleball enthusiasts in Summerland have a lot more room to play now that six courts are open to the public at the municipally owned Peach Orchard Campground.
On Sept. 1, district staff, mayor and councillors along with Summerland Pickleball Club members celebrated the completion of four new pickleball courts for a total of six at the campground — a big step in meeting the needs of local players.
The club contributed $5,000 to the project through their growing membership of over 150 players.
Club president Henry Sielmann said with this many courts available to the public, it’s a real opportunity for new people and families to take up the sport.
“Now that we have the additional courts, we feel we could even invite people from the big city to play with us,” said Sielmann on Wednesday.
Mayor Toni Boot added that the courts are an opportunity to be active outdoors.
“In the 2018 parks and rec master plan, it was identified that one of the gaps in our recreation, and there are a few, were the pickleball courts,” said Boot.
“We see today three times the amount of pickleball courts we had before. So with these six courts, it’s another opportunity for people to get COVID out of their minds for a few minutes and get out in the fresh air in a beautiful park setting of our municipal campground.”
The courts are available to anyone in the public who are welcome to come to the back of the campground where the courts are located. For campers, the office has a supply of rackets and balls.
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in Canada for its accessibility for all ages.
Prior to the four courts being added, the club had been playing on just the two courts.
Some even recounted playing into the winter months last year and clearing away the snow with the broom that is provided.
There is also a railing that has been installed at the courts for E-bikes or bikes to be locked up while playing.
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