Proposed Conversion of Avent Park Tennis Courts to Permanent Pickleball Facilities

The Oxford Mayor and Board of Aldermen met on Tuesday to discuss a proposal to turn the tennis courts at Avent Park into pickleball courts. The idea was presented by the newly formed Pickleball Association of Oxford and the Park Commission. The proposal suggested that the current tennis courts be converted into 12 pickleball surfaces.

While no motion was made to implement the change, there was positive communication between the OPC, local pickleball players, and the members of the Board. The cost of changing the courts and means of fundraising were discussed, and quotes for the work will be obtained by the OPC director and brought back to the OPC board before returning to the Board of Aldermen.

Recreational pickleball has grown in popularity across the country and is quickly gaining traction in the city of Oxford. Avent Park has seen an increasing number of people waiting to use the temporary pickleball courts. The game is enjoyed by people of all ages, and some cities have even included league and tournament events in their tourism and entertainment packages.

According to OPC Director Seth Gaines, converting the current tennis courts to permanent pickleball courts could bring visitors to the city through pickleball tournaments. The neighboring City of Tupelo holds its own tournaments, and Oxford could follow suit. This would show the city's commitment to moving forward and looking long-term for pickleball activities.

In their memo to the Board, the OPC asked for support from the Board of Aldermen to request permission to solicit and accept quotes for the conversion. The conversion would allow the temporary pickleball courts to become a permanent facility. This would not only benefit the local pickleball community but could also attract visitors to the city through tournaments.

https://www.oxfordeagle.com/2023/02/27/avent-courts-may-change-to-pickleball/