First dedicated outdoor pickleball court opens in Timmins

For the first time, pickleball players in Timmins have a dedicated outdoor court.

City officials unveiled the facility Monday morning, something that's been in high demand with the sport growing in popularity.

For the first time, pickleball players in Timmins have a dedicated outdoor court. City officials unveiled the facility Monday morning, something that's been in high demand with the sport growing in popularity. (Photo from video)

The days of competing with tennis players for game space are numbered, to the relief of the city's pickleball community.

Some avid players recently competed at the provincial level and say having their own court is perfect for practicing their swings.

"It's nice to have these facilities, now,” said competitive pickleball player Luke Cloutier.

“I think we're really going to need to appreciate it and enjoy the courts. We just need the weather to cooperate, now."

"For the last six years, I know that they've been looking for a permanent location and I'm happy that we finally have two pickleball courts available,” said city Coun. Rock Whissell.

“We're looking into the future to see how popular they get and how more people play, and if we can add more throughout the city."

Players say additional courts are definitely needed. The new one is a resurfaced and repurposed multi-sport facility.

One of the fastest-growing sports in the world, players told us Monday that it's also spiking in popularity in Timmins.

"During the winter, we play indoors at the schools, but here, this is basically two courts is all we have to play. One hundred and thirteen members and counting,” said Anne McManus.

"It's growing phenomenally,” said Brenda Gray.

Low-impact sport

“Lots more young people are getting involved -- it's just taking off. People really seem to enjoy it, it's easy to pick up."

Being a low-impact sport, pickleball is a hit with seniors, as well as families. City officials see it as a vital activity for people's well-being.

"I'm encouraging people to be more active and go out and enjoy the pickleball,” Whissell said.

The city's recreation master plan notes a higher demand for outdoor sporting facilities, with options to build new amenities and refurbish existing ones.

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As far as racket sports, the city's gone from 11 tennis courts down to 10, to make room for this first dedicated pickleball court.