Welcome!
Summerland is one of the warmest and driest regions in Canada so on any given day from April to mid October from dawn to dusk you’ll find us on the outdoor courts. In the winter we’re fortunate to have two indoor facilities in which to play.
Summerland Pickleball Association (SPA) is a group of active, community-minded, fun and inclusive people who range in age and ability, but all have a passion for giving back and playing pickleball!
As a group, it is our aim to create a warm, welcoming and inviting forum for people to not only learn and play pickleball, but to meet new people and feel a sense of community.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Summerland Pickleball Association (SPA) is to promote the development and growth of pickleball within the District of Summerland, BC. The SPA will do this by: working with various levels of government and private entities to expand playing opportunities by establishing permanent dedicated indoor and outdoor courts, promoting the game to individuals of all ages and abilities, encouraging community spirit and sportsmanship,
VISION
Promote an inclusive recreational experience in the sport of pickleball.
VALUES
The SPA shall ensure a safe, respectful and inclusive environment where individuals of all ages and abilities can enjoy the experience of pickleball, encouraging community spirit, fair play and camaraderie.
Board of Directors
Judy Walker-President
Tracy Oslund-Secretary
Gail MacLaren- Treasurer
Heidi McKelvey- Director and Chair Membership
Gary Suddard- Director and Chair, Facilities and Maintenance
Brian Christopherson-Director and Chair, Court Development and Fundraising
Past Presidents
2016-17 Dennis Curle
2017-18 Brian Christopherson
2018-19 Brian Christopherson
2019-20 Brian Christopherson
2020-21 Henry Sielmann
2021-22 Sue Simpson
2022-23 Mike Donnelly/Patti Lindquist
2023-24 Patti Lindquist
History
In Summerland in 2013 pickleball was taking off and there was a need to find a dedicated space to play. Trout Creek School offered a place, however court space was tight. At the Baptist Church players had to bring the nets and balls and take them away after each session. Consequently pickleball players met with Summerland District staff and Badminton Club members to negotiate space at the Badminton Hall.
Badminton members were apprehensive about sharing their space with pickleball players. There was concern about degradation of courts but Linda Curle reassured them this would not happen. In addition, she provided a demonstration of the game showing that pickleball was not only fun but no court damage would occur. Some badminton players began to take part in both sports while others now only play pickleball.
Today the Summerland Pickleball Association (SPA) has over 300 members playing outdoors and at two indoor venues.
Milestones
- September 2013 first attempt to get outdoor courts in Summerland. Council had not even heard about the sport of Pickleball
- 2014 Outdoor play was organized by individuals who convinced Council to add temporary lines to one tennis court at Powell Beach and Peach Orchard Campsite
- 2015 Temporary lines were added to the 2nd tennis court at Peach Orchard Campsite. Council suggests that residents form a club
- August 2016 Summerland Pickleball Club(SPC) was formed
- June 29, 2017 official opening of outdoor pickleball courts at Peach Orchard Campsite
- 2017 Indoor winter play began at an assortment of venues
- Summer 2021 construction of four additional courts at Peach Orchard Campsite, providing six dedicated courts
- September 25, 2022 SPC launches a Facebook page