news release

Pickleball lovers in IRC have something to cheer about.  The Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce a brand new 12 court pickleball complex at the Richard “Dick” Bird Regional Park.  A grand opening and ribbon cutting are set for 11 a.m. on Friday, June 23, 2023.

The new complex is located within the regional park with amenities including a softball quad, lacrosse fields, playground, basketball courts, and tennis courts.  “This is so exciting for our residents and visitors.  The complex expands pickleball availability and offers fully lit courts with a LED lighting system that provides playability 7 days a week until 10pm each day,” said Gustavo Vergara, Assistant Parks and Recreation Director.

“Users of our facilities can’t get enough of this sport,” said Beth Powell, the County’s Parks and Recreation Director.  The sport was invented in 1965 and grew in popularity spreading from the west coast and eventually throughout the United States.  Pickleball has become the fastest growing sport in the United States since 2021.  “I believe the popularity of the sport is due to its social aspects, but it is also a fun activity accessible to virtually anyone regardless of age, ability, or athleticism,” added Powell.

“It doesn’t hurt that our weather is amazing,” added Powell.

Vergara explained the new courts will open up opportunities for league play, tournaments, and summer camps.  He also emphasized that open gym pickleball will continue its normal indoor schedule at the Intergenerational (IG) Center where there are six courts in play four days a week.

The pickleball complex, dedicated to Commissioner Richard “Dick” Bird in 2013, for his ardent support of parks and outdoor recreation, completes a vision that serves all generations of residents and visitors.

Please direct questions about this event to: gvergara@indianriver.gov or 772-226-1780.