Pickleball Progress

Pickleball is about to become a reality at the old tennis courts by the golf course at Fort Clark Springs. What started as an ambitious idea just a couple of months ago has rapidly gained momentum — and now, thanks to overwhelming support, the finish line is in sight. Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of Fort Clark Springs members and groups, the project has now raised over $10,000.  “Thank you sooo much to everyone that has donated!!!!” said Mary Ann Oliver, one of the project’s key organizers. “We are getting close to having enough funds to proceed!!! Please, if you can, help us reach our goal!”

 Donations have poured in from across the Fort Clark community. A huge thanks goes out to Fort Clark Springs RV Park Committee for kicking it off with an initial $2000 pledge; Fort Clark Springs Community Council, Fort Clark Springs Association, Sylvia and Chip Riggins, Francis Bitter, Mark and Hillenn Oliver. These, along with cash raised at Fort Clark Days — have brought the project tantalizingly close to full funding. 

But perhaps the biggest recent boost: an anonymous donor has come forward with a $2,000 matching challenge. If the community can raise an additional $2,000, the donor will match it — which would give the project all the funding it needs to begin.

Originally, the plan was to repair the existing surface and install portable pickleball courts — a modest but functional solution. However, with fundraising exceeding expectations, the team is re-evaluating their goals. Recent bids have been received for a more substantial and permanent solution, including asphalt resurfacing and permanent court lines — a game-changer for long-term recreation at the Fort. “We now have enough to build two portable courts,” said project lead Mary Ann Oliver, “but we want to pause and see if we can take this to the next level — a real, durable pickleball court that will serve the community for years to come.” The updated goal? $12,000 to make that dream a reality.

The upgrade will transform an underused space into a vibrant new hub for fun, fitness, and friendly competition. With just a little more support, Fort Clark Springs could soon have a top-tier pickleball facility available to residents, guests, and recreational players of all ages.

Mary Ann Oliver, along with Chip Riggins and Maja Edwards, has spearheaded the project, working closely with community groups and Fort Clark Springs leadership to turn this vision into something tangible.

 “This is a recreation project everyone can enjoy — residents, snowbirds, and guests alike,” said Oliver. With just one final step of fundraising left, the community is rallying together — and if momentum holds, Fort Clark Springs residents may be picking up paddles before year’s end.

Ways to donate include Mail-in Donations to Fort Clark Springs Community Council, P.O. Box 1292, Brackettville, TX 78832; you may leave your contribution with GM Charlena Cavender at the FCSA Administration Office, and checks should be made payable to Fort Clark Springs Community Council. An online donation platform is in the works.