On Nov. 26, the Russell County Commission and its Parks and Recreation Department celebrated the opening of the four new pickleball courts at the Seale Sports Complex. The courts are covered and have lights. The county also has two new pickleball courts at the Ladonia Sports Complex, which are covered and equipped with lights. Additionally, the Phenix City Parks and Recreation Department has opened 12 Pickleball Courts after renovations to the Old Tennis Courts at Idle Hour Park. So, just what is Pickleball?
When Americans step onto a pickleball court today, they’re not just hitting a ball — they’re joining a movement. Pickleball has exploded in popularity, and recent data show why. According to the 2025 Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) participation report, 19.8 million Americans played pickleball in 2024, up 45.8% from 2023 and a 311% increase over the past three years.
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines aspects of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Players use a solid paddle to hit a perforated plastic ball over a low net. It can be played one-on-one (singles) or in pairs (doubles), and the smaller court size — roughly equivalent to a doubles badminton court — keeps the game compact and accessible…