As part of Beachwood’s mission to add more fun amenities, the city officially opened six new pickleball courts on Oct. 4.

In the past, the tennis courts off of Fairmount Blvd. have been used to play pickleball, but due to a different net and other factors like court size, the city decided it was time to build specially-designed courts for pickleball, located just behind the tennis courts.

Beachwood’s Community Service Director Derek Shroeder explained that the demand for Pickleball has been increasing rapidly.

“It is one of the fastest growing sports around the country, if not the world,” he said.

The sport of pickleball is similar to tennis, but due to smaller court size as well as lighter balls and paddles, it is easier for beginners to pick up.

“There’s many demographics [that the sport appeals to, from] old to young, and you don’t have to be in the greatest shape either, so it allows more people to play together and have fun together,” Schroeder said. “Like tennis, it [is] a fun form of physical activity, and it’s a great way to socialize.” 

Beachwood resident David Pollack, who picked up pickleball about a year ago, is excited about the new pickleball courts because it will help him get to play more often. 

“I like the fact that it’s kind of like a combination of wiffleball, pingpong and tennis all wrapped in one,” Pollack said. 

He added that it provides good exercise and more time with his family. 

The city is offering pickleball lessons for residents of any skill level.

“We are starting this fall with group lessons, adults and kids,” Shroder said.