Tift County Recreation Department’s ribbon cutting of Pickleball Complex

TIFTON, Ga. – Tift county just cut the ribbon on a new addition to their recreation scene: the Pickleball Complex. And, judging from the large turnout, it’s already going to be a promising addition.

Tift County Commission Chairmain, Tony McBrayer played the first match on the new courts Friday morning…

With the sheer number of onlookers showing that it’s already popular in the Friendly City.

“It shows you the interest in Pickleball. And, by the way, I just played a match, that’s why I’m a little sweaty and winded. But, it’s a lot of fun. It’s good cardio, good exercise. I’m not one to go to the gym and pump weights. But, this gives me an opportunity to get out and exercise. And, it gives our children that opportunity and get away from the video games some, and make them healthier. And have a healthier lifestyle,” said Tony McBrayer, Chairman, Tift Co. Commission.

The county’s recreation department had seen how rapidly the sport had grown in popularity over the past couple of years.

And, now with a proper facility repurposed from underused tennis courts, it helps make the Friendly City a recreation destination.

“It’s also potentially going to put heads in beds. People, when they’re travelling up from Florida, or back down to Florida, they have been stopping by and asking ‘hey, where’s Pickleball?’ or ‘y’all have a Pickleball place in the community?’ The hotels can now say yes, we’ve got a great Pickleball Complex, y’all can come play…” said Tim Peatrea, Director, Tift Co. Recreation Dept.

But, don’t just take their words for it.

We managed to catch up with a couple of people who stuck around after the ribbon cutting to play a round.

“…A lot of people. A lot of retired people. It’s a great venue for people who are retired, and it’s a great activity. It’s not that strenuous. It’s extremely good,” said Kelly Fonsah, Tifton.

“Oh, it gives us the opportunity to play different places. And, it’s become so popular, it gives you another area to play in,” said Pam Matt, Tifton.

With the city of Tifton and Tift county having big plans to host Pickleball tournaments at the new facility, it’s a very welcome addition in one of Southwest Georgia’s hubs.

The Tift County Pickleball Courts are open every day from 8 am to 10 pm.

Brian Roche reporting.

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