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Board backs July 11 pickleball ‘extravaganza’ to channel surge in youth play
Summary
The parks board described a July 11 event featuring lessons, vendors and court expansions to address heavy nightly youth use and teach etiquette and court rotation; staff hopes visiting vendors and a July 10 ribbon‑cutting will boost participation.
The Parks and Recreation Board approved plans to host a July 11 “Pickleball Extravaganza” aimed at beginners through advanced players, expanding courts and offering coaching, vendors and entertainment. Michael, speaking for staff and the board, said certified coach John Rodriguez will run skill‑level sessions and that portable nets and street‑striping will expand play beyond the four permanent courts.
Board members framed the event as both a community celebration and a behavioral intervention. Michael said the programming will “introduce new players to the game, develop player skill levels, promote proper etiquette, sportsmanship [and] educate players on court rotation and public play expectations.” He told the board the event will host beginner, intermediate and advanced two‑hour sessions and include giveaways and vendor booths.
The plan responds to heavy nightly court use by children and teens: Michael recounted texts and visits showing courts active as late as 11 p.m., and said volunteers and a coach have been giving away paddles to kids. The board cited youth engagement as a positive outcome but said the event will emphasize respectful play and court rotation to reduce conflict when courts are crowded.
Staff described promotional steps and partner outreach. Michael said vendors and clinics may travel to New Castle following a July 10 ribbon‑cutting in Indianapolis; the board discussed placing banners on the courts’ fence and securing modest sponsorship. The event is intended to showcase Baker Park as a regional pickleball destination and to create a welcoming environment for players of all ages.
The board did not record a formal vote on the event in the transcript; planning details and staff follow‑up were the main outcomes at the meeting. The board set July 6 as its next meeting date and adjourned for the Fourth of July holiday.
