News Summary

The city of Luverne is buzzing with excitement as pickleball gains popularity, thanks to the efforts of the Luverne Area Pickleball Association (LAPA). Established in 2023, LAPA aims to promote this fun and social game, welcoming players of all ages. The community has embraced pickleball with expanded facilities, year-round play, and educational opportunities, fostering a growing network of pickleball enthusiasts that extends beyond Luverne.

Luverne Sees a Pickleball Revolution: Community Comes Together

In the vibrant city of Luverne, there’s a delightful buzz surrounding a new sport taking the community by storm: pickleball. The Luverne Area Pickleball Association (LAPA) has quickly carved a niche, inviting fans of all ages to participate in this exciting, social, and energetic game.

From Family Fun to a Full-Fledged Association

The story of pickleball in Luverne began back in the summer of 2017. A local couple, Greg and Barb Antoine, stumbled upon pickleball during a trip to the stunning Black Hills. Impressed by the game’s dynamics, they were eager to bring it back to their hometown. What they found upon their return was disheartening—a lack of venues for playing pickleball in Luverne. Instead of throwing in the towel, the Antoines decided to take action, aiming to create opportunities for residents to get involved in this fun activity.

Fast forward to 2023, the vision came to fruition as LAPA was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The mission? To promote and grow pickleball in Luverne, creating not just a sport, but a community.

Early Days and Space Expansion

The early days of LAPA were modest. Initial games took place on a modified tennis court at Luverne High School, adapting it to the official pickleball dimensions of 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. During that first summer, attendance peaked at just 10 enthusiastic players. However, it quickly became evident that interest was growing. Recognizing the demand for more space, LAPA expanded to include two pickleball-sized courts on the west side of the tennis complex at the high school, allowing the community to explore the game in a more accommodating environment.

Thanks to the partnership with the school, two nets were provided, and LAPA invested in an additional net to ensure everyone could play. As local players took to the courts, a true community vibe began to blossom.

Winter Wonderland or Summer Sunshine?

Pickleball in Luverne isn’t just a summer affair; it thrives year-round. While summer games are played in the fresh air at the high school, the fun shifts indoors during the winter months. Players gather in the warm comfort of St. Catherine’s Catholic School gym for exciting matches every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Weekday games also occur at the Minnesota National Guard Armory from September to May, providing players with ample opportunities to play from 8 to 11 a.m. on weekdays.

A Growing Community of Enthusiasts

Currently, LAPA boasts over 50 members, drawing pickleball enthusiasts from nearby areas including Iowa, Hills, Edgerton, and Pipestone. The sport is gaining traction not just within Luverne, but across surrounding communities as well. Greg and Barb Antoine have also taken it upon themselves to assist neighboring towns like Hardwick in developing their own pickleball courts—spreading the joy of this sport across the region.

The association offers pickleball lessons through the local Community Education program, welcoming non-members to join in the fun and learn the ropes. So whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, everyone’s invited to step foot on the courts and give it a shot.

Easy to Learn, Hard to Resist

Described as a delightful blend of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, pickleball is especially appealing because it’s easy for families to join in. With the use of the Play Time app, game scheduling has never been easier for participants. Current game times are available on weekdays from 8 to 11 a.m. on the outdoor courts near LHS, as well as evening sessions indoors at St. Catherine’s gym.

As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, LAPA is already eyeing a future with a year-round facility to accommodate the booming interest in the sport. With its strong emphasis on community and fun, pickleball in Luverne seems poised to keep building excitement and friendships for years to come.

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