Pickleball paradise emerges from once-decaying Livonia parcel
The Livonia Athletic District’s new outdoor pickleball courts were buzzing with activity Friday afternoon.
A gentleman estimated to be in his upper-80s approached Livonia Athletic District Managing Partner Todd McIntyre during the Sept. 20 grand opening of the LAD’s 16 tournament-caliber outdoor pickleball courts.
Located on the sprawling, trees-shaded acreage directly west of the building that formerly housed the Livonia YMCA, the space was bustling Friday as individuals from their 20s to their 80s played the world’s fastest-growing sport.
“The gentleman told me he was sad how this entire area had deteriorated since he used to play tennis back here as a member of the ‘Y’,” recounted McIntyre. “He told me he was happy we put some life back into this beautiful outdoor space again.”
During Friday’s grand opening, people played pickleball for free under sunny skies, with upbeat music blaring from a sound system and three food trucks parked about 100 yards north of the courts, the surfaces of which are state-of-the-art quality.
Courts are in demand
It was pickleball paradise — and a much-needed transformation considering the rising demand for pickleball courts in southeast Michigan.
“Pickleball is difficult to master, but easy to play,” said Rick Wang, LAD’s Director of Pickleball. “There are a lot of volleys, it’s a very interactive sport and everybody can step on a court and start playing; that’s why it’s booming. It’s great exercise for people of all ages.”
The 16 courts replace the YMCA’s once-pristine tennis-court set-up that had, over the years, been beset by cracking concrete and weeds.
“One of our initiatives is to add energy to the community,” said McIntyre, who purchased the YMCA property in 2021 along with fellow investors. “Beginning in the spring, we’ll be hosting tournaments and leagues here, and drop-in play as well. We’ll have Food Truck Sundays and — maybe as soon as next year — we’ll be adding six more courts and lights.”
Lessons, clinics available
Yang will be available to give lessons and clinics to beginning players.
“We had quite a few people here today who had never played before,” McIntyre added. “The feedback we received — from advanced players to newbies — was incredibly positive.”
McIntyre said LAD will be releasing information regarding pickleball memberships on Oct. 1.
Ed Wright can be reached at 734-664-4657 or edwright@socialhousenews.com.
