Rainfall altered the day’s plans slightly, but it did not wash away the sense of pride local residents felt upon seeing the new Reeble Park pickleball courts up close and personal Sunday.
The Emporia Country Club hosted the official grand opening of the new courts which were the result of generous donations from multiple donors including the Reeble Foundation for which the courts are named after. Jane Reeble says she was inspired to get involved after seeing the sport’s popularity both locally and in other communities.
In attendance for Sunday’s ceremony was Lucy Kovalova who is currently ranked number one in the world in women’s doubles. Kovalova was invited to attend by her friend and former Wichita State Tennis teammate Courtney Krsnich.
A portion of the day’s activities had to be pushed inside due to heavy rainfall, however, shortly after the rain ended attendees came together to dry the courts so they could be used. Kovalova says it was heartwarming to see that sense of community and it says a lot about the passion for pickleball in Emporia.
Once the courts were dry, Kovalova put on a skills demonstration and strategy conversation before allowing locals a chance to get in some play of their own. Organizers of Sunday’s activities are hopeful Emporia may soon host regional or national pickleball tournaments in the near future.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE NewsÂ
