Sherman Pickleball is Alive!

March 29th 2025

The Town of Sherman has completed construction of new pickleball courts at Volunteer Park in response to increased local interest in the sport. First Selectman Don Lowe confirmed the project’s completion in his November 4, 2024, From the Desk of the First Selectman report, stating the courts were delivered on schedule and to the satisfaction of residents.

Pickleball, a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen a significant rise in popularity nationwide. In Sherman, informal play began on one of the tennis courts at Colonial Park, where residents marked their own lines and used portable nets to accommodate regular games. As participation increased, so did concerns—particularly from nearby neighbors—regarding the sport’s high-pitched sound, prompting the town to consider alternative locations.

By April 2024, Sherman officials began receiving formal requests from the public for dedicated pickleball facilities. In response, the town selected Volunteer Park as the site for new construction, citing its distance from "densely" populated areas and suitability for recreational development.

The estimated $240,000 project was funded through the state’s Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grants. Site preparation included the installation of drainage and water management infrastructure to address naturally occurring wet conditions. While the project did have an impact on local wetlands and wildlife, town leadership and the public ultimately supported proceeding, balancing environmental concerns with the perceived benefit of expanding recreational offerings.

Construction began in August 2024 and was completed within the expected timeline. The new courts are now available for public use and are anticipated to serve as a valuable community asset.

The project reflects Sherman’s continued investment in community recreation and its responsiveness to evolving resident interests.