Oxford, AL – The much-anticipated opening of Oxford’s new pickleball courts took place on Wednesday, April 3, at the Oxford Civic Center grounds. A ribbon-cutting ceremony kicked off the event at 4:30 pm, marking the beginning of a new era for recreational sports enthusiasts in the city.
Pickleball, known for its easy-to-learn rules and social atmosphere, has been gaining popularity across the nation. The open-play format of the game allows players to interact and compete with a diverse range of participants, making it not just a sport but also a social gathering.
According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, the game has captured the interest of millions of Americans, with statistics showing that 14 percent of the population has tried pickleball at least once. Additionally, over 8.5 million individuals have played the game multiple times, with a significant portion expressing their intention to play more frequently in the coming months.
Mayor Alton Craft expressed his pride in Oxford’s commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities for its citizens. He commended the vision of the Parks and Recreation team, led by PARD director Don Hudson, and the support of the City Council in realizing the addition of pickleball courts to the city’s recreational offerings.
“The City of Oxford takes great pride in offering a wide variety of recreational opportunities for its citizens,” stated Mayor Craft. “I appreciate the vision of our Parks and Recreation team and the support of our City Council in helping our citizens have the opportunity to enjoy playing this popular sport.”
Residents eager to take advantage of the new pickleball courts can find more information about court times and availability by contacting the Oxford Civic Center at 256-831-2660. The Oxford Civic Center is conveniently located at 401 McCullars Lane, providing easy access for players and spectators alike.
The grand opening of Oxford’s pickleball courts marks an exciting milestone for the community, providing a new avenue for physical activity, social interaction, and fun for residents of all ages.
*All video courtesy of Oxford Community News.
