Pickleball Association reaches goal for new courts
February 11, 2021
ASHLAND – With generous donations from dozens of Ashland community members, the Ashland Pickleball Association has achieved its goal of raising $130,000 to transform the existing tennis courts at Cahn Grove Park into a modern, 6-court Pickleball complex.
The design process is underway, and the courts should be ready for Ashland families and individuals to enjoy sometime this summer.
In November 2020, the APA officers initiated a campaign to raise the funds, and Ashland responded.
With a lead gift from Robert and Janet Archer as well as sponsorships from Ashland County Community Foundation, Samaritan Hospital Foundation, University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center, Tom and Bonnie McGee, Jack and Norma Sturgeon, Judith Ebert, Rob and Chris Stoops and Lloyd and Norma Wygant, along with contributions from 70 residents, the new courts can now become a reality.
The City of Ashland has endorsed the campaign from the beginning, and has committed to ensuring there will be new lighting and paved walkways installed at the park when the courts are completed.
“The campaign was a total group effort and there are so many to thank,” said Norma Sturgeon, APA president and campaign co-chair. “I am thankful to have had Dr. John Jentes as campaign co-chair; Darla Plice, Secretary/Treasurer; Patty Hart; Tom and Bonnie McGee; Molly Riley and Tricia Zupan on the committee as well as Gene Haberman as advisor.
“We are overwhelmed by the support of the resident of Ashland. As one sponsor said, ‘this is exciting for Ashland… I want to be a part of it, and I don’t even play Pickleball!’”
Sturgeon expressed gratitude to each of the contributors to the campaign.
“The mantra of ‘Ashland on the Rise’ will be on clear display at Cahn Grove Park, thanks to you,” she said.
About Ashland County Community Foundation: Ashland County Community Foundation advances philanthropy and improves the quality of life in Ashland County by connecting people who care with causes that matter. ACCF has awarded over $18 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.