City of Portage celebrates Woodland Park pickleball court ribbon cutting and grand opening

Sunday, October 12 marked a day filled with fun, competition, and community in Portage as city officials cut the ribbon on Woodland Park’s pickleball courts. The day was packed full of activities pertaining to the sport as Portage welcomed its newest athletic addition to the park on the court’s opening day.

“It’s hard to put into words. It is just so beautiful, and we’re so thrilled that we’re going to have this for the community. I believe the courts will revitalize Woodland Park and bring a lot of life and excitement here,” said Park Superintendent Kelly Smith.

The celebration kicked off bright and early at 9 a.m. with the official opening ceremony and ribbon cutting. A brief presentation was made on etiquette and safety following the snapping of the scissors, and then everyone got into action on the courts through a series of exhibitions and open play. Children, seniors, and advanced players each got a chance to put their pickleball skills to the test through 20-minute sessions for each group, with open play and a mini clinic following the closing ceremony later in the afternoon.

Bringing pickleball courts to Portage has certainly been an exciting time, and one that has long been in development. Smith noted she is very proud to see it all come to fruition.

“Pickleball has been a popular sport that’s been growing. A lot of other communities also have pickleball courts, and we did not. It’s something for all ages. A grandparent can go play with their grandchild,” said Smith.

As the park board president, Andy Maletta is also ecstatic about the opening of the pickleball courts. With the sport’s rising popularity, he’s looking forward to more people bringing their A-game in the Portage area and finding a new activity to enjoy.

Portage Mayor Austin Bonta also came out to show support at Sunday’s event. He loves that so many in the community – from the city staff to city residents – are showing up to support developments in their local parks throughout the city.

“It feels fantastic that the community has been showing up. In a relatively short time, Portage Parks has boosted its reputation for having great facilities, great staff, and great plans for the future that will become reality. This pickleball court is a great example of something we set out to do, and at a really impressive speed, we got it done,” said Bonta. 

With the pickleball courts officially open for play, residents can now enjoy a new way to stay active, socialize, and make lasting memories at Woodland Park. The addition marks another step forward in Portage’s ongoing efforts to enhance recreational opportunities and create welcoming spaces for everyone to gather, play, and connect.

“What I love about pickleball is that it’s intergeneration. It’s a sport that you can play at all ages and all different levels of competitiveness,” said Bonta. “Having pickleball courts here at one of our city’s most accessible and biggest parks allows families and friends to connect.” 

Bonta recognizes all of the hard work that has gone into making the pickleball courts a reality in Portage. 

“I am so thankful for Kelly and John for their incredible work,” said Bonta. “I’m very thankful for the park board for their leadership and for the vision that they’re building together in our parks.” 

For more information on more exciting updates throughout the local parks and the City of Portage, please visit portagein.gov.