Over the weekend, Knox Mayor Dennis Estok announced that work has begun on the tennis courts meaning that residents will soon be able to play “Pickle Ball” in Wythogan Park.
The paddlesport that’s been growing in popularity in recent years apparently combines tennis, badminton and ping pong.
The City of Knox held a call-out meeting back in March and Mayor Estok reported that there was a lot of interest.
In an article published by NBC News, it was revealed that the game has seen a remarkable 650 percent increase in numbers over the last 6 years.
Executive Director of the USA Pickle Ball Association Justin Maloof noted that when the sport first caught on around 2009, it was primarily appreciated by crowds in senior living communities and RV Parks.
However, Maloof commented with many municipalities and parks and recreation departments choosing to set up courts, it has made Pickle Ball more accessible to different demographics as well.
With the court renovation underway, the City of Knox will soon join a variety of other communities around the country who are helping to increase exposure to the sport. Additional details about the project will be shared as soon as they become available.
