Pickleball Possibilities: The Fort Clark Springs RV Committee has pledged $2000 to kick off fundraising efforts for a Pickleball project

Pickleball is rapidly gaining traction in residential communities across the country, becoming a favorite pastime for residents of all ages. Blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, the sport is easy to learn, low-impact, and highly social—making it especially appealing to both active seniors and younger families. Communities are increasingly incorporating pickleball courts into their amenities, recognizing the game’s role in fostering community engagement and promoting healthy lifestyles.

  Now, that same energy is sparking interest at Fort Clark Springs. A dedicated group of volunteers is working hard to bring pickleball to life locally, and momentum is building fast. Creekside Clubhouse and Heather Amidon at the FCS Golf Course began gauging interest in the game over a month ago, and since then, community members Mary Ann Oliver, Chip Riggins, and Maja Edwards have stepped up to lead research and fundraising efforts—all in hopes of serving up some fun on the courts in the near future.

  The plan is to repurpose the existing tennis courts at the golf course, which are currently in need of serious repair. With a little TLC—and some help from the community—those aging courts could soon become a lively pickleball hub. Several residents have already offered their support, both through donations and a willingness to help with the physical installation.

  During Fort Clark Days in early March, the Pickleball Planning Group set up a booth to spread the word, and the response was fantastic: several donations came in, and three full pages of sign-ups from people interested in playing, helping, or contributing financially. While the project is still in its early stages, the enthusiasm is undeniable.

  One potential challenge is the seasonal departure of many Winter Texans, who make up a significant portion of Fort Clark’s volunteer base. With that in mind, anyone who wants to get involved—whether through volunteering, donating, or just learning more—is encouraged to reach out to Mary Ann Oliver at maryann.oliver@ymail.com.

  To kick off the fundraising effort, which has an initial goal of $6,000, the Fort Clark RV Park Committee has generously pledged $2,000 toward the project. With continued community support, it’s very possible that pickleball could become a reality at Fort Clark Springs before the year is out.

To find out more about the game, visit USAPickleball.org