Pickleball 2.0 at Wollman Rink
Last year, pickleball courts were introduced as an off-season replacement for skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park. The innovative setup featured a large acrylic carpet covering the rink’s concrete floor to create playable courts.
This year, a new and exciting change is on the horizon. The playing surface is being revamped to allow pickleball players to experience the rink’s original setting directly beneath their feet. The floor is undergoing resurfacing to make this transition possible.
Permanent Pickleball Courts
CityPickle, the company spearheading the initiative, has secured a three-year contract to operate pickleball at the rink. The new surface is designed to be a permanent fixture, offering players a unique experience on the historic rink. The versatile surface will serve dual purposes, accommodating both pickleball games and ice skating seasons seamlessly.
CityPickle has emphasized the improved functionality of the new surface. It is expected to provide better drainage and faster drying times after rain, ensuring minimal disruptions to gameplay. This development marks a significant milestone for pickleball enthusiasts, with the sport’s popularity skyrocketing during the pandemic.
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball witnessed a surge in players, reaching 13.6 million in the United States last year, up from 4.8 million in 2021. Mary Cannon, a principal at CityPickle, expressed gratitude for the support received, describing the approval to resurface the rink as a vote of confidence in the sport. The cost of over $250,000 for the resurfacing project was covered through a partnership with Wollman Park Partners, the rink’s concessionaire.
