Pickleball fever lands at North Park

The paddles are flying, the balls are bouncing, and the laughter is echoing across all six courts at North Park in Coal City.
Pickleball has taken the world by storm and is on the rise here in the village as new courts have opened. The sport is captivating players of all ages and skill levels with its unique blend of accessibility, social camaraderie and thrilling competition. Whether you're a casual player looking for a fun way to stay active or a seasoned athlete battling for supremacy, pickleball offers an exhilarating experience unlike any other.
“It's truly a sight to behold seeing courts packed with enthusiasts, from young families enjoying a sunny afternoon rally to groups of friends engaging in spirited doubles matches,” said Matt Leman, president of the Coal City Tennis Association.
The beauty of pickleball lies in its low barrier to entry; grab a paddle, step onto the court, and you're almost guaranteed to be dinking and driving within minutes.
Don’t have a paddle? No problem. The Cove has partnered with the Coal City Tennis Association to provide paddle rentals. The Coal City Tennis Association has also created leagues for all ages.
“We are extremely thankful to be partnering with the Village of Coal City in creating a great space for people to play, and all proceeds collected for league play goes back to the village for the court resurfacing project,” Leman noted.
“We have created Pickle Pals for ages 5 thru 10, learning leagues for youth ages 11-17, as well as leagues for beginners, seniors, and competitive adults.”
All leagues meet for six weeks on Tuesdays and CCTA plans to roll out a second set of leagues that will run from July 22-Aug. 26. Sign ups and more information can be found on the Coal City Tennis Association Facebook page.
“Our goal is simple. We want people out having fun, making friends and enjoying racket sports. Our expansion into pickleball hopefully fosters a vibrant and welcoming community where new friendships are forged with every volley.”
But don't let the smiles and friendly banter fool you when it comes to the competitive leagues, the intensity ramps up, and players are battling for every point.
“The current season has been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing incredible athleticism, strategic mastery, and nail-biting finishes. The standings are a testament to the dedication and talent within the league, with every point fiercely contested.”
Justin Hayse currently leads the pack with 29 points, showcasing remarkable consistency and skill. However, the battle for the top spots is incredibly tight, with Cale Ripsch, Devon McVey, and Colin Hart hot on his heels, all tied at 23 points. This sets the stage for an electrifying second half of the season, where every match will count.
“From casual neighborhood games to high-stakes professional tournaments, pickleball is proving to be more than just a passing fad; it's a phenomenon that's here to stay. So, grab a paddle, find a court at North Park, and join the millions who are discovering the pure joy and competitive thrill of pickleball. You won't regret it,” Leman promised.