Students at Shadow Ridge are excited for the new pickleball courts being built just east of the school at Galaxy Park on Farm road between Decatur and Aviary Way. As one of the fastest growing sports in the United States, pickleball is quickly becoming a favorite among students.
Junior Reese Lovett states, “Pickleball is such an easy fun thing to do with my friends. Even though we aren’t good at pickleball, it’s so fun to just laugh and enjoy the warm weather.”
The new courts provide students with more opportunities to stay active, try something new, and spend time with friends. Unlike many traditional sports, pickleball is easy to learn and available for players of all skill levels.
The courts being so close to Shadow Ridge will play a big role in their popularity. Being so close to the school makes them a convenient hangout spot without being limited to school hours or rules. Students can meet up with friends, play casually, or even organize their own mini competitions. The new courts have great potential to be a place where people can stay active while spending time outside the classrooms.
Beyond just being fun, the courts also improve the overall school environment. Physical education classes can now include pickleball as part of their curriculum, giving students a fresh alternative to standard activities.
Lovett states, “I remember during freshman year P.E, my friends and I got to play tennis and pickleball and it was so fun because we made so many funny cheers and we got super competitive with each other.”
For student athletes, the courts offer an extra way to stay in shape and work on important skills like hand eye coordination, reaction time, and communication. Athletes from other sports such as baseball, volleyball, and basketball find that pickleball is a fun way to stay in shape during season or offseason.
Junior Sarah Fisher states, “Sometimes in between volleyball seasons it can be so hard to get physical exercise, however, my teammates and I love to play pickleball to help get our blood moving.”
There is also potential for these courts to inspire something bigger. As more students get involved, there is a possibility of a pickleball club or even the start of small tournaments. What starts as just a recreational space, could easily turn into a bigger part of the school’s culture.
The new pickleball courts near Shadow Ridge will be more than just a place to play, but also will bring people together, encourage active lifestyles, and will add something new and exciting to the community.
