The era of tennis has passed

The ongoing debate between tennis and pickleball players at the Park City MARC has reached a boiling point, with pickleball enthusiasts feeling marginalized and overlooked in favor of tennis players. The recent decision to allocate all four indoor courts exclusively to tennis following the collapse of the bubble has left pickleball players scrambling for alternative places to play.

Despite the growing popularity of pickleball nationwide, with Utah leading the nation in players, the MARC seems to be stuck in a tennis-centric mindset. The Recreation Advisory Board (RAB) has come under scrutiny for not being consulted on this decision and for failing to consider the overwhelming demand for pickleball in the community.

Pickleball players have voiced their frustration at the lack of representation and fair treatment at the MARC, with many pointing out the disparity in court usage between the two sports. The issue has sparked a larger conversation about public policy making and the need for data-driven decisions that reflect the community’s preferences.

As pickleball continues to gain momentum as the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., it is clear that the MARC needs to reassess its priorities and consider the needs of all recreational players. The RAB has been urged to take action and address the imbalance in court allocation, ensuring that both tennis and pickleball players have equal access to facilities.

The debate between tennis and pickleball at the Park City MARC highlights the importance of inclusive and transparent decision-making in recreational facilities. It remains to be seen whether the RAB will step in to address the concerns of pickleball players and promote a more equitable playing environment for all.