Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in North America and is quickly becoming the sport of choice for many people within The Town of Parry Sound, and surrounding areas. It is especially popular with the Senior community as it is a racquet sport that can easily be played by sport enthusiasts of all ages and capabilities. It allows for an active lifestyle which has long reaching benefits to the community in terms of active, healthy individuals . . . but also a social gathering that keeps our population active not just physically, but also mentally and creates a real sense of camaraderie and community. Currently there is organized Pickleball in Parry Sound, Pointe Au Baril, Seguin, Mactier, and pending Township approval in McKellar.

Our challenge has been finding facilities that will accommodate our ever growing community of players we see attending. The winter months are the most challenging, with the Bayside Church generously allowing us to play at their gym, which has one court, where we play twice a week. This is very challenging as there are sometimes upwards of 24 players attending, and only 4 able to play at a time. The YMCA has also taken up the calling, by alas only has one court as well.

In the summer, as our numbers swell, we relocate to the Nobel Rec. Centre, which has four courts, but tends to have slippery areas at times, which have resulted in some broken wrists, sprain injuries, and strained muscles. This is due in part to the courts being outdoors in nature (although there is a roof) and susceptible to the climate and weather conditions which can change quite suddenly.

We would like to propose that as the Town of Parry Sound and surrounding Communities, Municipalities, and Townships are planning a New Pool and Recreational facility for our area, 4 new indoor Pickleball Courts be included in this plan to create a year round venue for the sport of Pickleball to flourish and grow in our community, benefiting both year round, and seasonal residents.

Please join our effort to bring year round, indoor, centrally located, professional courts to our area and enjoy this sports phenomenon that is sweeping our country and surrounding communities.

Thank-you for your time!