Article submitted by Jamie Fleury, The Pilot News Staff Writer
David Miller of the Plymouth Picklers, a group of local Pickleball enthusiasts, updated the Plymouth Common Council Monday night on their pursuit of five dedicated Pickleball Courts to be located in Centennial Park along with their proposal for funding the project.
The group is pursuing funding from a variety of sources to secure the estimated $200,000 for the project. Members of the fundraising team include Miller, Bob Powell, Jenny Hollabaugh and Amy Gerard. The team hopes to secure $60,000 from the Plymouth Parks Department, $40,000 from other local government agencies, $50,000 from private and / or corporate donors, and $50,000 in grant funding. Over $13,000 has already been pledged from local players at the launch of the fundraising campaign in July of this year.
“As we proceed we may come to you because for the grants we have to come through an entity.” said Miller. Discussions are pending with the Marshall County Community Foundation as a potential fiscal agent.
Superintendent of Plymouth Parks Department Michael “Mike” Hite attended the meeting virtually and confirmed support of the project. The Parks Department Board of Directors has already granted approval for the courts to be located adjacent to the existing tennis courts near the Freyman Pavilion. In addition to approving the location, the board also approved the fundraising efforts on behalf of the parks.
The mission of the Plymouth Picklers Group is to provide individuals and families in Plymouth and Marshall County the opportunity to enjoy the sport of Pickleball along with the sense of community and connection it provides in addition to the overall health benefits to people of all ages and skill levels.
According to Miller, Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States. The sport was established decades ago and combines aspects of tennis, ping pong, and badminton. Currently, the largest population of athletes participating in the sport is over the age of 50.
Miller shared in his report that according to the USA Pickleball Association, more than 5 million people play Pickleball with over 38,000 courts in the United States.
Currently nearly 50 local Pickleball Players compete on the tennis courts which have been embellished with Pickleball boundary lines. While the group is thankful, they are convinced that the dedicated courts will enhance the experience that promotes physical, mental and social well-being.
Further information can be obtained by contacting Miller at 574-780-2261 or by email at millerd54@gmail.com.
