CORRECTION: An original version of this article misattributed a quote. Elon News Network regrets this error.
Mebane resident and former triathlete Sheila Simpson first picked up a pickleball racquet nine months ago. After suffering from a broken ankle that left her unable to walk for months, Simpson was ready to get back into athletics and from that moment on, she was hooked.
Simpson was one of hundreds of people who came to Burlington City Park on Friday afternoon to celebrate the long-awaited grand opening of a new pickleball complex. With 17 courts, shaded areas and special events such as clinics and tournaments, residents are looking forward to the complex becoming a community hotspot.
The day featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, beginner classes, raffles and more.
Josh Stewart — who serves as director of fun for the summer collegiate baseball team, Burlington Sock Puppets, and self-proclaimed pickleball enthusiast — helped to cater the event. He has played pickleball for over five years, and said he looks forward to having many opportunities to play in his own community.
“It’s a privilege to be a part of this community that’s growing and honestly becoming even more fun than it’s already been,” Stewart said.
The courts are open to all Burlington residents, though those who pay for memberships get special privileges such as court rentals, a ball machine and merchandise discounts.
Burlington City Park's new pickleball complex has 17 courts which were opened to the public during a grand opening event May 9.
In the back corner of the complex stands a practice court decorated with a pickleball-themed mural painted by Burlington local Artie Barksdale III. Barksdale began the painting in October and finished it last week, just in time for opening.
“What I like about it most was that the city and I were all in on it,” Barksdale said. “When you got that many people agreeing and cheering you on, that's what gave it the momentum that it needed to become the beautiful piece of artwork it is today.”
To Simpson, one of the most important aspects of the sport has been the support she receives from fellow players. When she first started, she had never played racquet sports, so she needed to learn the basics.
“Everybody was really nice and welcoming and very encouraging,” Simpson said. “Everyone plays with everyone and I think it’s wonderful.”
Burlington City Park's new pickleball complex welcomed community members to celebrate the grand opening May 9.
Stewart was surprised at the number of highly-skilled players in Burlington and said he wants to put in work to improve.
“I’m committed to the grind of whatever it takes to be one of the best pickleball players here,” Stewart said.
The new complex isn’t only for those playing at high levels but open to anyone who wants to join.
Eleven-year-old Drew, 8-year-old Vida and 9-year-old Colton attended the event with their families and had two words to describe the day: awesome and exciting.
“If you’re coming to this pickleball court, I hope you have a great time,” Drew said.