Plans to bolster Ridgeway’s leisure choices place the rising sport of pickleball on the heart of a new multiuse recreation complex.
The complex will characteristic three pickleball courts, amongst different facilities, mentioned Ridgeway Mayor Craig O’Der.
“It’s going to be a special venue,” O’Der mentioned concerning the $225,000 venture. “We have a tremendous ability to provide recreational opportunities right here in the town of Ridgeway.”
The new venture shall be among the many few sports complexes within the southern a part of Henry County.
Pickleball is a decades-old sport that has skilled a surge in reputation lately.
At first look, the game is just like tennis, however the guidelines differ. Games are normally capped at 11 factors, and scoring is predicated on various components, from possession to how the ball is hit.
Communities throughout the nation have modified present tennis courts to accommodate pickleball.
“Pickleball is such a hot sport right now,” O’Der mentioned.
Ridgeway’s deliberate multiuse complex shall be positioned behind the city’s put up workplace on Almond Street. Ridgeway paid $30,000 for the property.
“It’s across the street from our existing park, so it’s kind of a part-two to the park area there,” O’Der mentioned.
Plans for the complex embrace courts for basketball, road soccer and hockey, O’Der mentioned, however he’s banking on pickleball being the massive draw.
“I think it’s great exercise that a lot of people enjoy,” O’Der mentioned. “It’s easy to learn and it’s really transcendent, all ages from youngsters to the retired. Some of the best pickleball players I’ve seen, one of my best friends, his parents were tennis players and now they’re pickleballers. I’d put them up against anybody who plays pickleball, they are so good at it.”
O’Der mentioned he hopes to make the most of the game’s reputation by internet hosting pickleball occasions and tournaments, together with occasions centered on individuals with disabilities.
Ridgeway officers determined to pursue a sports complex and have been supported by the county, which contributed $100,000 to the venture’s value. O’Der mentioned officers needed to do one thing tangible for residents, who usually use out-of-town amenities, just like the Smith River Complex in Martinsville.
O’Der mentioned he spoke with and took cues from communities that had their very own pickleball courts. Collinsville’s Jaycee Park was among the many courts he and city employees drew inspiration from for their upcoming venture.
Completion of the venture is anticipated someday in October.
“This really looks like this is going to benefit the whole community,” O’Der mentioned, including that he feels the complex will have an effect past Ridgeway’s borders.