For pickleball players in the Willamette Valley, summer is truly the most wonderful time of the year. And two fans of the sport have issued a challenge to the local pickleball community this summer to support construction of a new 24-court facility on the LCC campus that aims to give everyone more places to play.
Pickleball devotee Roger Schaljo and Janise Augur recently announced that they have pledged to match every dollar donated to the Emerald Valley Pickleball Foundation between June 1 and Oct. 1 to support the new courts, up to a total of $100,000.
“Pickleball has been so wonderful for my health and fitness, and I love how it brings people together and builds connection,” Roger says. “I know that by bringing these courts to town, we can give the gift of pickleball to area players for generations.”
Pickleball offers numerous health benefits and plenty of social connections, so it’s not surprising that it has become so popular. And yet, its popularity means that there are nowhere near enough courts for everyone to enjoy the nation’s fastest-growing sport.
The Emerald Valley Pickleball Foundation held its annual meeting at Meadow Park in Springfield on June 1.
“This is a great opportunity to support pickleball in our community, and to have fun doing it,” EVPF President Alicia Hays said. “This complex will be one of the largest in the Pacific Northwest, allowing us to provide free and low-cost recreation opportunities to our community, as well as host large tournaments bringing in visitors.”
The Foundation officials expect the new courts to help the estimated 4,000 players in the area find a place to play. Support for the new facility already has been high, with contributions totaling over $2.8 million to date and another $2.5 million pending.
The new courts are designed to be ADA accessible and inclusive in every way, and 10 of the courts will be covered, allowing for play in most types of weather and lengthening the outdoor pickleball season. Amenities will include restrooms, water fountains, benches, shade structures, and bicycle parking.
More info at evpickleballfoundation.com
