Skip to content

Council considers pickleball proposal

A pickleball hub will be in consideration as part of Rossland Recreation’s Master Plan
26887571_web1_210624-TDT-pickleball-lg_1
New courts at Butler Park in Trail. (Contributed)

A delegation brought a pickleball proposal to council on Oct. 18.

Residents Judy Gresley-Jones and Kathy Bowcock represented the Rossland Pickleball Club and brought forward a strong argument for a pickleball hub in the downtown core of the Golden City.

The club currently shares a court with tennis players at Red Mountain, but it is far from satisfactory. The newly formed club, which already has 50 members, requested that council create dedicated pickleball courts in or near downtown.

“By raising awareness of the growing popularity of the sport and it’s benefits to all players, in particular seniors, we hope pickleball courts will be included in future recreational development and be part of the OCP,” said Gresley-Jones.

The popularity of pickleball has been growing in the area, so much so that there are dedicated pickelball courts in Montrose, Trail, Sunningdale, Oasis, Genelle, Castlegar, and soon will be coming to Fruitvale.

“Many Rossland members are playing in other communities who presently provide better facilities with dedicated pickleball courts, washrooms and room for players to relax and wait their turn to play.”

The City of Trail recently created and resurfaced four dedicated pickleball courts at Butler Park thanks to a grant from Columbia Basin Trust.

The addition of these facilities are relatively inexpensive, in comparison to the hours of use and benefits to the community.

Christina Lake hosted their Hook, Line, and Dinker tournament in August, which attracted close to 200 players.

“Opportunities for economic development and tourism will benefit all,” said the delegation. “Rossland could host competitions and offer camps, which will bring visitors to the area, driving economic activity for businesses.”

Mayor Kathy Moore, says the courts will be considered in the city’s upcoming Recreation Master Plan along with other forms of recreation.

“I think it will fit in there perfectly,” said Moore. “I would love to see that. It would be great, because it is a sport gaining in popularity and I can envision a couple of places around town where it could fit.”

Read: Got Stress? Take a hike …



sports@trailtimes.ca

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter



Jim Bailey

About the Author: Jim Bailey

Read more