Headline after headline is documenting the growing popularity of the game of Pickleball. See for example,

Fast-growing pickleball occupies a rare space in the American sports landscape—Deseret News Aug 27, 2019

Pickleball Fans Make The Case For Dedicated Courts—Two River Times, Feb 21, 2019

Pickleball anyone? Invented in 1965, the infectious court sport is all the rage today—Arkansas Democrat Gazette, August 20, 2019

In Fairfax County, the growing popularity is demonstrated by the long wait times for players for the limited number of usable courts, both indoors and outdoors.  While all ages are enjoying the game, it is particularly popular for older adults.  The game does not require as much running as tennis and a number of the rules make it a fun sport for all skill levels.  The popularity of the game will likely increase as the population of our older residents increases.  Pickleball provides that population with an opportunity to socialize and stay active for their health and wellness. 

We believe it is incumbent upon the Fairfax Board of Supervisors and the Fairfax County Park Authority to find ways to support the growth and interest in Pickleball among its residents.  This should include repairing underused tennis courts and converting them to dedicated Pickleball courts as well as adding either dedicated or temporary courts (with striping and portable nets) inside Recreation Centers, Community Centers, and Senior Centers.