MOUNT PLEASANT, SC (September 14, 2017) – The Mount Pleasant Recreation Department recently added eight outdoor pickleball courts to its repertoire of play spaces. Pickleball, one of the country’s fastest growing sports, is rapidly increasing in popularity and demand in the Lowcountry.
After observing the enthusiasm for the sport throughout the country, adding the courts became an obvious goal for the Recreation Department. “Two factors were considered in our decision to increase pickleball courts in town,” said Deputy Recreation Director Jimmy Millar. “Our recent survey identified the demand for more courts. Also, we recognized this as a trend in recreation nationwide.”
Pickleball, an indoor/outdoor sport, is an exciting game that blends the elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Played on a badminton-sized court, the running distance required is much less than tennis. Additionally, players use a perforated plastic “whiffle” ball and paddle during the low impact sport.
Currently 13 pickleball courts are available for public use in the Town: eight outdoor courts at the Park West Recreation Complex, four outdoor courts at the Miriam Brown Community Center, and one court at the Mount Pleasant Senior Center. Additional indoor courts will be lined in the Jones Center Gymnasium. MPRD is also planning a pickleball tournament for 2018.
Pickleball is easy for beginners to learn but can develop into a fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players. Pickup games of pickleball can be played at the Miriam Brown Community Center and Park West Recreation Complex. However, programmed activities such as private lessons and tennis clinics will take priority over open play at Park West.
For more information, please contact the Recreation Department at 843.884.2528. Are you over 50 years old and interested in playing now? Call the Mount Pleasant Senior Center at (843) 856-2166 for information on its robust pickleball program. Also, share your how you are “staying in motion” playing pickleball by posting your photos at http://www.Facebook.com/MountPleasantRec or Instagram at @mtpleasantec.