Johnson City Parks and Recreation
A Walk in the Park Your Parks and Recreation Connection
Special points of interest: ~ Inaugural Pickleball Tournament a Big Dill! ~ Administration Highlights ~ Athletic Division Highlights ~ Park Services Division Highlights ~ Recreation Services Highlights - Kudos Corner ~ Calendar of Events
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Inaugural Pickleball Tournament a Big Dill! The Johnson City Senior Center Foundation’s Inaugural Indoor Pickleball Tournament held at Memorial Park Community Center on Nov. 2-3 came off without a hitch, drawing about 50 competitors in both the round robin and doubles tournaments. Sponsorship revenue from the event will help provide outreach and program support in the community for those 50 and older. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with more than 2.8 million players in 2017. The local tournament offered opportunities for players at all skill levels, allowing a wide range of enthusiasts to test their skills in a competitive setting. A post-tournament survey revealed a five -star rating for organization and helpful staff and volunteers. The vast majority of respondents also said they will recommend the tournament to friends and that they appreciated the blend of competition and socialization. “It takes a lot of eye-hand coordination, thought about upcoming shots and strategy,” said Tammy Moore, a local emergency room physician and avid player. “It’s a smaller court, but it can be competitive for all ages. I think this has grown, and I think younger people are getting into it.” Ty Petty, a Jonesborough resident and national pickleball champion, conducted a demonstration and provided instruction at the MPCC gym on Nov. 1. All registered players received a plentiful breakfast and lunch, as well as refreshments and goodie bags filled with tournament T-shirts, assorted items and redeemable coupons. Players advancing to the top three divisions in both round robin and doubles play were awarded medals. Thanks to our sponsors: Johnson City Senior Center Foundation, Johnson City Convention and Visitors Bureau, Mooney’s Pharmacy, Chick-fil-A, Johnson City Crossing, Holiday Inn, Little Caesars, Olive Garden, Pickelball Central, Pickelball Rocks and Wheeler’s Bagels.