By Rob Hardin

August marked one year since the grand opening of the Groveport outdoor pickleball courts located in Groveport Park. In that time, the courts have played host to league play, tournaments, fundraisers, parties, and camaraderie for members of the Groveport Pickleball Club and players from throughout Central Ohio. That camaraderie is reflected in the 85th birthday party the club held for member Jay Reece who shared “The most exciting thing is the people that you play with.”

Another highlight of camaraderie from the courts’ first year was “Red, White, and Dink” on July 3, when approximately 180 people came to play, listen to music, and watch fireworks. The club also hosted a benefit night for a player who passed away and successfully raised $10,000 for their family.

In addition to the positive connections between players, the courts offer great physical amenities. These include the well-lit courts, which remain illuminated until 11 p.m. for those desiring after-work play. Starting Wednesday, October 1, the lights will come on at 6 a.m. for those seeking an early morning workout. The courts also include a live webcam, at parkviewlive.com, so that players can verify weather conditions, court availability and/or the presence of other players to connect with before leaving home.

According to Groveport Pickleball Club Director Scott Lockett, the courts are the “nicest in Columbus,” proven by players coming from surrounding communities, including Pickerington and Canal Winchester. When hosting league play, the club has seen players come from as far away as London, Delaware, and Waverly, Ohio.

All of this has seen club membership grow to approximately 215 members. The courts host club play Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. They host league play, including a women’s league on Monday night and mixed doubles on Wednesday night; a Thursday night open ladder league plays at Degenhart Park.

As the courts enter their second year, Lockett hopes to see even more events and to encourage the next generation of players to pick up a paddle. On Sunday, October 12, they will host an introduction to pickleball for the Groveport/Canal Winchester Special Olympians. Lockett also hopes to have more kids’ events and more weekend events.

“I got the bug!” summed up by member Harland Geiger, of Pickerington, who has been playing for four months,

For additional information about the Groveport Pickleball Club, visit the club’s Facebook page, email GPBC614@gmail.com, or call 614-804-0976.

Information about the courts can be found at groveportrec.com or by calling 614-836-1000.