Wells College in western New York state, celebrated the inauguration of its recently refurbished tennis and pickleball facilities on Saturday, all the while paying tribute to the woman whose generous support made the transformation possible.
The Estate Of Debra Dahn
A dedication event for these courts took place that morning at the private institution located in Aurora. Following the ceremony, a group of local pickleball enthusiasts took the opportunity to try out the newly upgraded facilities.
The renovation, with a total cost of approximately $200,000, has involved the conversion of four tennis courts, two of which have been transformed into pickleball courts.
The funding for this project was graciously provided by the estate of Debra Dahn, an alumna of Wells College from the class of 1978 and a passionate advocate for women’s tennis.
Famous Pickleball Camaraderie
Players from the local pickleball group took part in friendly matches, displaying their skills and showing that famous pickleball camaraderie with applause and cheering whenever a high-quality shot was made.
Marion Hares, a Wells College graduate from the class of 1983 and a member of this pickleball group, was keen to express her gratitude for the opportunity to play on the newly improved courts. Hares also emphasized that the dedication ceremony allowed them to express their heartfelt appreciation to both Dahn and the college.
Jessie DeWitt, 1979 Wells graduate and a group member, told auburnpub.com: “We’re full of gratitude to those who made (the new courts) happen.”
“Rough Shape”
Wells’ Athletic Director, Tara Ruckh, mentioned before the dedication the tennis courts were in a state of disrepair, often described as being in “rough shape.” The renovation project was undertaken not only to restore these facilities but also to breathe new life into the college’s women’s tennis program, which had been inactive for approximately seven years.
Wells College has set its sights on reviving the women’s tennis program, with the goal of having it operational once more by the autumn of 2024.
Interestingly, the local pickleball group had a history of utilizing the college’s tennis courts for their games prior to the renovation, and the new courts will help them develop the group even further.
According to Ruckh, the college was happy to oblige as “Wells is so entrenched in the community.”
Introducing Pickleball Classes Into The Curriculum
Wells aims to introduce pickleball classes into the student curriculum as early as spring next year, and Ruckh is enthusiastic about giving the students “”another opportunity to compete.”
“Any time we can do upgrades for athletic facilities here, I couldn’t be happier.”, she adds.
Wells College
Wells College, situated in Aurora, New York, is a distinguished private liberal arts institution. Throughout a significant portion of its rich history, it has served as a women’s college.
Notably, Wells College enjoys a unique cross-enrollment arrangement with two renowned neighboring institutions, Ivy League University Cornell and Ithaca College. This partnership enhances the educational opportunities available to its students.
Located in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of New York, Wells College benefits from a scenic and culturally vibrant setting.
The nearest large city to Aurora is Syracuse, approximately 35 miles to the northeast.
Read more of our articles about how pickleball is finding its way into educational facilities.
