Brookhaven parks offer pickleball drop-ins

On Sept. 14 Brookhaven’s Parks and Recreation Department started offering pickleball as a free drop-in activity.

“We’re excited to add pickleball to our new drop-in activities,” said Athletic Manager Davian Oglesby. “It’s a fun and easy way to try something new and get to know the community.”

Oglesby also stated that the department chose pickleball as one of the new activities because of the recent growth in popularity as well as an opportunity to offer residents of all ages and skill levels a fun and easy-to-learn activity.

Pickleball drop-in will be available at two Brookhaven’s recreation centers. Lynwood Park (3360 Osborne Road) will host pickleball on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., and Briarwood Park (1496 Briarwood Road) will host the sport on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.

City officials state that participants do not need to bring their own equipment as the department will provide paddles and balls. Those who have their own equipment are permitted to bring it.

“The new pickleball sessions are part of Brookhaven’s ongoing efforts to offer free and fun ways for residents to stay active and enjoy their recreation centers,” said Interim Park and Recreation Director Kevin Cowling.

Along with the Lynwood Park and Briarwood Park, Brookhaven residents can also find pickleball courts close by in Dunwoody at Blackburn Park (3493 Ashford Dunwoody Road) as well as Pernoshal Park (N Shallowford Road) which offer courts designed to converse between tennis and pickleball.

“Residents should just come out and give it a try,” stated Oglesby. “You don’t need to have any experience, and you don’t need your own equipment. Don’t worry about being perfect or knowing all the rules when you first start. The goal is to be active, have fun, and feel comfortable enough to keep coming back.”

Residents can also take advantage of open gym and other free activities happening throughout Brookhaven’s recreation centers such as “Walk and Talk” and “Adult basketball runs.”

For more information about Brookhaven’s drop-in activities schedule, visit https://www.brookhavenga.gov/419/Drop-In-Activities.