Florida currently has the highest number of pickleball courts in the nation yet demand for playing space is expected to increase even further in the coming years. Combining the elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball has just celebrated its third year in a row of being America’s fastest-growing sport. With an astounding growth rate of 158.6% over the past three years, pickleball’s health and social benefits are just a part of what has Martin County residents buzzing. The newly unveiled community concept of Storie has ignited excitement about the future expansion of the sport. With plans to include new pickleball and tennis courts, soccer fields, and other amenities that would be open to the public, let’s explore how Storie could change the game in Martin County.
What is Pickleball?
Fun, social, and friendly, pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court with a lowered tennis net, paddle, and a plastic perforated ball. The game can be played both indoors and outdoors, in doubles or singles formats. The rules of the game are quite simple – hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court. Most participants don’t take long to become accustomed to the serve-and-match etiquette like the “double bounce rule.” The ease of learning plus the smaller court putting less strain on their bodies has created a fun game for kids and active adults alike. The sport is also known for its desirable health benefits, improving agility, balance, hand-eye coordination, and overall cardiovascular health in a low-impact workout. By understanding these basics and mastering the equipment, pickleball enthusiasts can easily move on to the fun part- perfecting their technique and embracing the fast-paced nature of the game.
Martin County Courts in High Demand
Those in Martin County who enjoy the game have found keeping up with the sport’s popularity challenging. Currently, the county boasts 29 courts across just five parks, with Halpatiokee Regional Park in Stuart leading with 18 courts. Other options include Wojcieszak Park in Stuart (1 court), Langford Park in Jensen Beach, and Doc Myers Park in Hobe Sound (4 courts each), and Countyline Community Center in Hobe Sound (2 courts). With the most courts by far, Halpatiokee often results in extended wait times during peak hours, sometimes exceeding 30 minutes. Weekends can be even more challenging, with tournaments and events further limiting available courts. Locals often rely on luck to secure an empty court. Pickleball enthusiasts eagerly seek a new facility with more courts to reduce wait times and enhance community engagement, uniting people through their shared passion for the sport.
New Pickleball Courts on the Horizon
The newly unveiled community concept of Storie would be a hub of recreational activity with new pickleball courts that would be open to the public. With preserving open spaces a central aspect of Storie’s design, the new parks would enhance the quality of life for all Martin County residents. New pickleball courts would provide an outlet for residents to stay active, with the opportunity for organized tournaments that foster healthy competition amongst all ages. Storie Regional Park would also feature sports fields, tennis courts, children’s splash pads, dog parks, and more that all residents could enjoy.
Pickleball is just the beginning of the exciting adventures planned for this vibrant community concept. Storie’s designers have placed a high priority on clean water and open spaces that all Martin County residents could enjoy. A vibrant village center, K-12 charter school, and plentiful outdoor activities are just the beginning of ways this eco-minded neighborhood would bring together the community. As Storie progresses toward finalizing the details of this community concept, additional information will be revealed in the near future. To receive a copy of the StorieTime magazine with more details on the vision for this community, or to be among the first to see the vision video upon its release, register your interest at StorieFL.com.
