Pickleball enthusiasts, in partnership with the city of Palatka, FL, have collaborated to form a program to introduce the sport to local families.
The St. Johns River Pickleball Group presented the equipment to Eddie Cutwright, the city’s Cultural Affairs Department recreation director, at the former Jenkins Middle School.
A Substantial Donation
The department is currently organizing programs at this location and aspires to eventually occupy a portion of the building on a full-time basis.
The substantial donation included 45 pickleball paddles, four portable net systems, and 100 balls, Jimmi Symonds of the St. Johns PG told.
Furthermore, the group organized a pizza party for local children, using a portion of the $2,500 grant provided by the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida for the acquisition of pickleball equipment.
Symonds highlighted that the equipment will be transported to various areas of the city using a Palatka Police Athletic League vehicle, thereby offering greater accessibility to residents.
Keeping The Kids Out Of Trouble
The initiative is in response to the challenges some children face.
“Sometimes, the kids have a hard time getting to the parks, especially with working parents,” said Symonds. “Once a month, we’ll start going to different neighborhoods. We’re just trying to bring the fun to the kids.”
Symonds and Cutwright said the plans will form part of the Mobile Rec program, scheduled to begin in December.
Cutwright said keeping the kids busy and getting their families and friends involved is a great way for youngsters to have fun without them getting into trouble.
“This December, we’re going to try to have a December clinic, a winter clinic,” he told Brandon D. Oliver from Palatka Daily News. “Get kids busy. Keep them busy; keep them out of the streets.”
Portable Net Systems
The equipment acquired through the grant will play a pivotal role in expanding the sport across the city.
Symonds highlighted the significance of the portable net systems, which enable various locations to transform into impromptu pickleball courts.
Notably, the group recently designated two pickleball courts at Mellon Learning Center in Palatka, and even the parking lot at the former Jenkins building could potentially serve as pickleball courts.
The Inclusivity Of Pickleball
Symonds lauded the inclusivity of pickleball, asserting that it can be played on nearly any safe, flat surface. Its popularity continues to rise due to its sociable nature, making it a game suitable for individuals of all ages.
She hoped that children would entice their parents to join the fun.
For further information regarding Mobile Rec, please contact Community Affairs at 386-329-0100.
About Palatka
Palatka is a city located in Putnam County, Florida, United States, and serves as the county seat. The population was recorded at 10,558 during the 2010 census.
It is the primary city within the Palatka Micropolitan Statistical Area, which is home to 72,893 residents. Notable landmarks in the city include St. Johns River State College, St. Johns River Water Management District Headquarters, and Ravine Gardens State Park.
The region is renowned for its local festivals, most notably the Florida Azalea Festival and the Blue Crab Festival. Palatka is situated approximately 50 miles directly south of Jacksonville and around 80 miles north of Orlando.
