Big Rock Park Pickleball Courts Plan More Improvements, Fundraisers

SANTEE, CA — The city recently closed the Big Rock Park pickleball courts to square in the corners of the frequently-used courts.

The closure began Tuesday morning at 6 a.m. and lasted into Wednesday as a contractor installed new concrete to expand the corners of the court, the city reported. The court would be opened as soon as the concrete had cured, an estimated 24-hours from start to completion. This was just one of the improvements planned for coming months at the Santee courts, thanks to ongoing fundraising efforts.

The Big Rock Park Pickleball Addicts facebook group reacted to the closure with mostly "thumbs ups," as that group was integrally involved in raising money for court improvements.

"Heads up kids," administrators of the group said, reminding all of the mid-week closure. "But (the closure is) for improvements, so let’s be happy!!!"

In the mean time, another Big Rock Park Pickleball Tournament fundraiser is being planned for January 14. The proceeds will go towards more court improvements, they announced, including shade and seating.

A previous fundraiser for the ladies was held last weekend with resounding success, adding to the court's coffers.

While the city of Santee Parks and Recreation department recently provided new nets to the courts, the Big Rock Park Pickleball committee has fundraised for multiple park improvements.

The group has raised money toward gates and interior fencing, as well as to "square the corners" at the Big Rock Park courts, which is the current project.

The next fundraiser will be aimed at resurfacing and re-painting the courts, according to committee member Dave Paulsen's improvement plans, which he posted on the group's Facebook page.

The last phase, according to the committee, will be to work on surrounding pathways to the courts, and to provide more shade and seating. Members of the Facebook group and the committee are thankful for leaders to keep the local pickleball courts in top shape.

"The success of the court improvements fundraiser can be attributed to our fearless leader, Dave Paulsen," a recent facebook poster shared. They also thanked "the many volunteers that are helping things run smoothly."

Interested in joining the group? All you have to do is show up and play, from 8 a.m. to dusk. There are no lights at the courts.

At Big Rock Park, there are eight pickleball courts to use. New players can borrow loaner paddles and balls, as well as take part in free clinics Sundays from 9 to 11 a.m. for beginners and Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. for advanced beginners.