Building Community Through Pickleball: A Vision for North Manchester

By: Lauren Caggiano

Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport enjoyed by people of all ages, from urban centers to rural towns. However, not every community has the infrastructure to support its expanding player base. Tim McLaughlin, a North Manchester resident, is on a mission to bring dedicated pickleball courts to his hometown.

McLaughlin’s Journey to Pickleball

McLaughlin’s love for pickleball began unexpectedly in 2023 at a wedding, where a friend introduced him to the game. After just one match, he was hooked. “”I went straight home and ordered a paddle, shoes, and pickleball balls,”” McLaughlin says. Since then, he has played regularly, often traveling to nearby towns. Despite his full-time job in the insurance industry, he’s committed to making pickleball accessible in North Manchester.

A Vision for Local Pickleball Courts

North Manchester currently has only one indoor pickleball court, limiting the number of players who can participate. McLaughlin, frustrated by this lack of facilities, approached Jennifer Hotchkiss, the town’s Parks and Recreation director, to discuss building new courts. ” “Hotchkiss was supportive but emphasized that the project would require private funding. McLaughlin is now working to raise $260,000 to cover the costs of construction, including excavation, fencing, lighting, and nets.

A Prime Location at Warvel Park

The proposed site for the new six-court facility is Warvel Park, a 10-acre location with ample space and parking. McLaughlin is actively fundraising and seeking local business and resident support. “It’s been amazing how many people locally have approached me,” he says. McLaughlin hopes to break ground by the fall, depending on funding and contractor availability.

Supporting the Vision

The Community Foundation of Wabash County is managing donations for the project. Contributions can be made with “pickleball courts” noted in the memo line. With strong local support, McLaughlin’s vision for new courts is gaining momentum.