In just two months, the pickleball courts on Commerce Drive in the Pioneer Park complex at the north edge of town have attracted hundreds of enthusiastic players from throughout Quad Cities area and the state.
Constructed by the City of Prescott Parks and Recreation Department, the new pickleball courts brought more than 200 players from throughout Arizona for its inaugural public pickleball tournament in mid-June, said Peg Travers, president of the recently formed Prescott Pickleball Association (PPA).
“As soon as we announced the tournament and newly constructed courts, we had inquiries from all over the place,” Travers said. “Nancy Price served as tournament director, and she planned men’s, women’s and mixed doubles play during that three-day tourney.”
Funding for the courts came from private donations, local businesses and $25,000 matching funds from the City of Prescott bed tax fund.
Funds from entry fees were used to provide medals for the age categories of 19-49, 50+, and 60 and older, she said.
Many more events are scheduled in coming weeks, as the city’s Parks and Rec Department provides programs, lessons, clinics and related activities at the park.
Bob Atherton, the Northern Arizona District Representative to the U.S. Pickleball Association, said he thinks the new facilities are among the best in the state. In addition, the PPA is scheduling lessons for beginners. QCBN
By Ray Newton, QCBN
For more information, visit Prescottpickleball.com.
Photo by Ray Newton
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