Rooftop Pickleball

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Operational Enhancements:

The courts have strengthened club operations by:

• Fostering Community Bonding: Serving as a social hub for members.
• Increasing Participation: Attracting a broader demographic.
• Improving Flexibility: Enabling feedback collection for future programming. This initiative has boosted the club’s reputation for adaptability and responsiveness to member needs.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

Implementation of the Idea:

Increased member demand for pickleball prompted the innovative use of a parking garage deck to create additional courts. The process included:

• Member Needs Assessment: Surveys confirmed strong support for more courts.
• Space Evaluation: Feasibility study ensured no impact on parking.
• Facility Preparation: Deck was adapted for safety and playability.
• Communication: Members were informed via digital and club announcements. This proactive, member-driven approach ensured a smooth rollout and high initial engagement.

Member Reaction:

The response was overwhelmingly positive:

• High Satisfaction: Members appreciated the convenience and creative use of space.
• Community Engagement: The courts fostered camaraderie, with a sold-out tournament featuring 48 players (the maximum capacity) and a partnership for National Pickleball Day.
• Broader Participation: The new courts attracted 189 unique users, 50% of whom had not previously used the Club’s regular courts, effectively doubling overall play and drawing new, diverse members to the Athletic Department facilities.