Turkey Point residents gathered this past Sunday (Aug31), under a beautiful sunny sky to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of their brand-new pickleball courts. A large crowd filled the park, marking the end of a year-long effort by the Turkey Point Pickleball Committee. Committee member Doug Johnson explained the humble beginnings of the committee.
A small group of dedicated residents turned an idea on a front porch into a reality for the whole community.
Johnson spoke proudly at the opening, sharing how the team — himself, Chris Nelson, Steve Dawe, Rob Ziegler, Ken Hewitt and Greig Tolar— worked with Norfolk County, secured community support, and raised thousands of dollars. He told those gathered that the slogan for the project was “make it happen”, but it grew to be more than that.
Over 500 residents signed petitions in support, and local contractors and businesses stepped up with major discounts and donations. The Norfolk Community Foundation served as a valued partner, managing funds on behalf of the project and even provided a $10,000 contribution to help the new courts succeed.
The new courts are designed to be modern, durable, and a true community hub. Johnson and the committee have much bigger hopes for courts.
It began humbly, with a few friends talking on a deck and grew into a true community collaboration. With support from so many, the project became reality, serving as an example of residents and the County working together to build a stronger community.
Written by Jeremy Hall