East Lyme Parks and Recreation Opens Pickleball Courts at Peretz Park

Are you looking for a fun and exciting new sport to try out this summer? Look no further than pickleball! East Lyme Parks and Recreation is opening brand new courts at Peretz Park at Bridebrook, just in time for the sport’s rapid expansion in Connecticut.

Pickleball is a racquet sport that is gaining popularity for its similarities to tennis, but played on a smaller court with plastic balls and paddles. The new courts at Peretz Park are set to host a Grand Opening Celebration on July 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by open play and basic skills instruction for all attendees.

The decision to construct these new courts came after a study of community interest and best practices, with funding provided in the town’s capital improvement plan. Scott Todd, a volunteer member of the pickleball committee, expressed excitement for the new courts, stating, “Having the new courts built and available is a huge win for the community. Pickleball interest continues to grow and these courts are going to help meet that growing demand.”

Director of Parks and Recreation, Jerry Lokken, added, “We’ve worked closely with the pickleball community and think we’ve provided a state-of-the-art facility with a few uniquely East Lyme tweaks, including a really neat paddle rack, that we think folks will love.” The town is also planning a full schedule of lessons, open play, competitions, and other activities on the courts, with details to be published on the town’s website and social media.

The sport of pickleball is rapidly growing in Connecticut, with new courts opening in Simsbury, Farmington, Tolland, and Stonington. If you’re interested in trying out this exciting sport, be sure to check out the new courts at Peretz Park and join in on the fun!