The Parks Department recently unveiled new pickleball courts at McCaw Park. There are 12 newly resurfaced and refitted courts, replacing the three tennis courts and basketball court that were there previously, making this the largest outdoor facility in the state of Indiana.
The courts are home to the Lafayette Indiana Pickleball Association (LIPA). This group formed in 2011, and received 501c3 status in 2017. With the rising interest in the sport, LIPA’s numbers have grown to over 180 members. Working together with Lafayette Parks and Recreation leaders, LIPA was able to secure numerous grants and in‐kind donations to bring the project to fruition.
“We are so thankful for the support of so many community leaders who shared our vision,” said LIPA President Stephanie Smith. “It has been a great working partnership with the leaders of the Lafayette Parks Department. Because of them, the City of Lafayette, and all of our wonderful partners, this beautiful pickleball facility is now available for our community to share.”
LIPA was able to secure grant funding from the following organizations:
- Spartan Trail Foundation
- Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette
- Tipmont REMC
- IU Health Arnett
- Subaru of Indiana Automotive
In‐kind donations were provided by the following:
- Affiniti, LLC, Brian Elmore
- Milestone Contractors
- IMI Materials
- US Aggregates
- Sunbelt Rentals
- Lowes Hardware Store
- Gibson Painting
Pickleball is quickly becoming a popular pastime across the United States. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association 2017 Pickleball Participant Report, there are currently 2.815 million pickleball players in the United States – an increase of 12.3% over 2016. As a comparison, the number of players only increased 1.8% from 2014 to 2015.
”Across the nation and in our own neighborhoods, the popularity of pickleball is growing by leaps and bounds for people of all ages,” stated Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski. “It is vital that we keep our parks fresh and relevant by providing amenities that are important to our community members. We are thrilled to provide this recreational opportunity within the Lafayette Parks system, as another great example of different groups coming together to expand our parks facilities.”
The pickleball courts are open to the public and free to use. McCaw Park is open daily from dawn until dusk.
The new courts have already been a popular destination for pickleball players, and will continue to receive a lot of use. LIPA will hold the Survivor McCaw Park Round Robin tournament on September 28‐30. They are expecting over 200 pickleball players from 11 different states to attend.
Stephanie Smith added, “Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and is a great way to have fun and get in shape. Come and join us on the courts!”
For more information about LIPA: https://lafayettepickleball.teamapp.com/