It was a good day for Malad Pickleball, as ground was officially broken for the installation of a new court at the western edge of the City Park on Monday.  The pickleball court has been a project in the works for a while now, and doggedly pursued by the members of the committee, who are all avid players of the sport.  Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country, and has been a giant hit with people of all ages and skill levels.  

The court will provide a recreation and health outlet in Malad to accompany its walking path, baseball diamonds, cornhole, and basketball courts.  Local adherents had been using courts near the old elementary school, which is currently undergoing construction.  

Mayor Joan Hawkins welcomed visitors, dignitaries, donors, and committee members to the park on a rare sunny morning at 8:00 a.m. for the ceremonial first dig.  Lance Tripp, City Councilmember in charge of Parks and Recreation, thanked all those who had supported the project throughout its planning and funding stages, especially the major donors to the facility.

Afterward, pictures were taken with those in attendance, and refreshments were distributed as the dozer moved onto the site to begin excavation for the project.

The Committee was composed of Anne Crowther, Bob Crowther, Dave Colton, Lynn Moore, Kris Blaisdell, Paula Thorpe, Dotty Evanson, Rex Robbins, Rebecca Firth, Sara Richardson, Tami Williams, Tyler Webster, Lance Tripp, and Debbie Buehler.

Major Donors included Non-Typical Excavation, Hess Pumice, Nucor Steel, Malad City, Parsons Cement, Messerly Construction, Malad Rock Products, and Ace Hardware.  

Those interested in contributing to the ongoing efforts can donate at City Hall.  The donation is tax deductible.