CLARENDON COUNTY, S.C. — Some in Clarendon County hope to see the addition of pickleball courts as the sport continues to gain popularity in South Carolina.
Residents spoke on the idea at the last county council meeting. One attendee, Todd Cole Clazier, said he supports bringing more courts to the area as he is part of a community group that plays the popular sport.
"Both Sumter and Florence are building facilities with dozens of courts," Clazier said. "In smaller towns like Elloree and St. Matthews, they, too, have recently built courts. Likewise, there is a growing interest in Clarendon County."
County Administrator Lynden Anthony said plans are in action, and one proposed location was J.C. Britton Park.
"We do have some space; we have significant space available to us to expand that park, redo our tennis courts, build some pickleball courts," Anthony said. "We do have some other amenities to amend, too, at that park as well."
Anthony said that, right now, there are no county-operated pickleball courts. However, temporary courts are set up at a local gym for players.
Resident Tarry Norsworthy agreed that having more access to pickleball courts would add more entertainment value to the area.
"I think it's a wonderful idea because we are so rural," Norsworthy said. "People come from these big cities and have nothing to do, so, yeah, I think it's a good idea."
Clazier said having more activities in town is good for the town and for the overall quality of life.
"Its accessible to young and old alike provides a level of exercise and recommended by the medical committee," he said.
County officials said they hope to apply for grants to help fund the pickleball courts.
Clarendon County officials said plans are still in the early stages, with designs in the works. However, no timeline is set for when they will be completed.
