July 2025

PICKLEBALL... from page 38.

most popular amenities, boasting 266 active members, Greenbriar decided to invest in converting one of their four tennis courts into two permanent pickleball courses.

Tip 3: There’s an App for That... and It’s a Real Game-Changer

Greenbriar Oceanaire uses the free BAND app to orga nize games, track players, and match skill levels, enhanc ing both comfort and competitiveness. Other apps to consider include PicklePlay, CourtReserve, Pickleball Den, Reclub, Spond, and Swish Sports. Whether using an app or not, communities can foster sportsmanship by supporting leagues, social play, and clinics for all skill levels. Noise complaints are a common concern, as the distinc tive “pop” of a pickleball can carry, especially in residential areas. Communities can proactively manage pickleball noise through strategic court placement, acoustic barriers, and time restrictions. If your community is considering adding new courts, the most effective first step is to locate them as far from residential homes as possible to reduce the likelihood of noise complaints. Indoor pickleball is also gaining popularity, as it helps reduce noise and eliminates weather-related interruptions to play. Installing sound-absorb ing panels or fencing and limiting play to hours like 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. can further minimize disruption. At Greenbriar Oceanaire, when residents raised con cerns, the board hired a professional firm to conduct a full noise study. The results showed that ambient sounds from landscaping and traffic were significantly louder than the pickleball courts. Still, the pickleball community continues to prioritize good neighbor relations and strives to find reason able compromises that benefit everyone. Tip 5: From the Ground Up — Design Courts That Protect and Perform Pickleball courts should be finished with a specialized surface that enhances both safety and playability. “We Tip 4: Keep the Peace — Proactive Noise Solutions

“...it’s still a physical activity — and injuries can happen.”

have textured surfaces that help water evaporate quickly and provide better traction,” Mike said. “They’re not just plain asphalt. The top layer is rubberized, so it helps water run-off and gives a little cushioning for knees and joints.” The “orange peel” or pebbled texture improves traction and helps water evaporate quickly. This design not only prevents slick surfaces but also provides a bit of cushioning, reducing impact on players’ knees and joints. Proper fencing is also essential. A height of around 10 feet helps keep balls contained and players safe. In addition, windscreens are helpful since pickleball uses lightweight wiffle balls that are easily affected by breezes. Lighting is another important consideration. Tip 6: Don’t Slip Up — Prioritize Court Maintenance While pickleball is fun and accessible, it’s still a physical activity and injuries can happen. From a liability perspec tive, associations shouldn’t be overly concerned. The risks are no different than those of other community-supported recreational activities. The real key is keeping the courts safe and well-maintained.

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JULY 2025