JOHNSON CITY PARKS AND RECREATION
CITY LEADERS ANSWER CALL FOR PICKLEBALL!
ADMINISTRATION HIGHLIGHTS
ATHLETIC DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS
PARK SERVICES DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS
GOLF DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS
RECREATION SERVICES DIVISIN HIGHLIGHTS
A Walk in the Park Your Parks and Recreation Connection I S S U E
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City Leaders Answer Call For Pickleball! The “addictive” game that won’t stop growing was recognized Tuesday, Aug. 23 by city commissioners, city officials and others who held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Memorial Park Community Center to christen 12 new outdoor pickleball courts. The ceremony at the largest pickleball facility in the Tri-Cities included an exhibition match, pickleball clinic and official public opening. Nearly half the pickleball players in the Tri-Cities get their game on at MPCC, which prompted commissioners last year to vote to fund about $100,000 for the conversion of four existing tennis courts. The expense covered resurfacing of the courts, restriping, installation of permanent pickleball nets, and the reorientation of the courts toward Bert Street. “Did we make the right decision here?” Jenny Brock, commissioner and former mayor, asked the large crowd gathered for the ceremony followed by a hearty round of applause and cheers. “For the health and well-being of community members, this is just about the epicenter for staying active.” The demand for courts in Johnson City has continued to blossom for years, and the sport’s popularity is steadily surging nationwide. Johnson City’s first-ever pickleball tournament was held indoors at MPCC in 2018, and the event had players, organizers and potential sponsors buzzing about its potential growth. The buzz has only increased. Senior Services Manager Deb Fogle said MPCC currently has 234 players, an increase from 64 players in 2015. There are close to 500 players in the Tri-Cities region playing pickleball, and the sport is growing not only among seniors, but young adults, teens and children. “I’m excited about everything this facility brings, and I want to recognize our Parks and Recreation Department for what they do,” said City Manager Cathy Ball. For more information about pickleball opportunities at Memorial Park Community Center, call 423-434-6237 or 423-434-5749.