Top Stories

G U E S T   C O L U M N

A Place to Play

By: Katie Kay

   Frankenmuth has always been a place where history, tradition and community thrive. From our Bavarian roots to our competitive spirit, we take pride in fostering relationships across generations and knowing how we are all connected. Whether it’s a festival, a shared meal, or a sports event, we know how to bring people together. That’s why it’s no surprise that pickleball, a game built on fun, fitness and fellowship, has found a home here.

  Pickleball’s story in Frankenmuth began in 2012 when Dave Budnik, former FSD teacher, learned the game while visiting Florida. Dave brought it back to share with friends, even crafting wooden paddles and putting string down with tape for boundary lines on the tennis courts to get playing. What began as a handful of friends and an email spreadsheet, has grown into a thriving community with players in our group eight to 83 years old.

  Pickleball is a sport that brings together grandparents and grandchildren, neighbors and even tourists eager to find a match while in town. It’s a game that’s simple to learn and inexpensive to play, offering a sense of accomplishment for anyone who gives it a try.

  As interest in pickleball continues to grow, it’s clear that sharing the school’s tennis courts is no longer the best solution. The good news? The perfect property has become available. In partnership with the city, we now have the chance to develop a portion of the field at Franklin and Schleier into dedicated pickleball courts.

  This project isn’t just about courts; it’s about opportunity. With regulation-sized courts, we can host open play, lessons, leagues for all ages, and tournaments, while creating a space for families, friends and visitors to enjoy. It’s a chance to enrich our town, promote wellness, and build something we can all be proud of.

  Whether you’re already a player, a nervous beginner or someone who simply believes in investing in the well-being of our community, your support is needed. Keep your eyes open for future opportunities to contribute monetarily. If you’re part of a foundation, service organization or business, we also invite you to be part of this effort to create a legacy of health and connection. Follow Pickleball Players of Frankenmuth on Facebook for more information and updates.

  If you are looking for a chance to play this winter, we have open gyms at the Harvey Kern Pavilion starting on December 13. The open gyms will be on Fridays from 9am-12pm and Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6pm-9pm. There will be some paddles available for you to use, but if you have one please bring it with you. There is a small drop in rate is for residents and non-residents. Beginners are welcome and we hope to see you there.

  ......To read other articles featured in this week's Frankenmuth News, click on the "Subscribe" tab at the left or call (989-652-3246) to begin receiving your weekly copy of the Frankenmuth News.