HomeMy WebLinkAbout9/4/2019 Item 2, O'Kelly (3)
Wilbanks, Megan
From:Brian O'Kelly <
To:Advisory Bodies; Scott, Shawna
Subject:PRC communication
To: Parks and Rec Commission
From: San Luis Obispo Pickleball Club, Inc
Subject: Additional compilation of letters on French Park in the future.
*****************************************
I support a Pickleball Center at French Park in the City of SLO.
Since moving to the area three years ago, I started playing Pickleball. I can see why it's called one of the fastest growing
sports in America. The benefits of Pickleball are many, and those who try it, typically end up fitting playtime into their
already busy schedules.
Top reasons why more courts at French park are needed:
I'm trying to organize a benefit Pickleball Tournament for SLO Co. United Way and more courts are needed to
make a tournament successful. Currently, SLO players have to go out of SLO to participate in tournaments.
There is often considerable wait times to play games because we have more people wanting to play, than we
have courts available.
It's a fact that people visiting SLO like to play Pickleball. I've seen as many as 5 couples from out of town come
to French park on a single morning to play Pickleball. Having plenty of designated Pickleball courts, in an easy
to find location, is now becoming an important asset to all cities wanting to welcome visitors from out of
town.
Thank you,
Tisha Smith
San Luis Obispo, CA
******************************************
As the popularity of pickleball grows, so does the need for adequate venues. What was once a sport enjoyed by adults,
has rapidly become a fun activity for every age group. Local schools have begun teaching the sport as part of their PE
programs. So, with an ever increasing number of players looking for places to enjoy the sport, we will absolutely need
additional permanent courts to accommodate everyone.
1
Many communities and colleges are finding that tennis courts are under utilized and have converted them to pickleball
courts. The space for one tennis court can accommodate four pickleball courts, maximizing the use. In addition, most
pickleball games are played as doubles matches, so that one tennis court allows 16 players to enjoy the sport.
For these reasons, we are asking that you please consider converting the existing tennis court at French park to four
permanent pickleball courts. Community members of every age will be able to find a court for play at any time they
wish.
Thank you,
Bronwyn Rafferty
*******************************************
I am writing this message in support of a pickleball center in SLO. We have collected abundant data to show the need
for expanded facilities and it seems that new players to the sport are arriving every week.
In response to this tsunami of interest it seems reasonable to expand facilities.
I look forward to many more years of of active playing and hope that the city recognizes that need.
Thanks for your interest in making our facilities commensurate with the local interest.
Sincerely, Frederick Thom
**********************************************
I agree that the French Park tennis court should be converted to permanent Pickleball courts. Pickleball is unique in that
it is a social sport where everyone wants to play at one location. For seniors, Pickleball meets physical, mental, and
social needs that are so important to aging. At the same time, we are seeing increasing numbers of young people taking
up the sport because it is so easy to learn and loads of fun.
Bonnie Bruerd
San Luis Obispo, CA
**********************************************
2