Park District Working Pickleball Courts at Hendelmeyer

Effingham Park District commissioners got an update this week on the conversion of the tennis courts at Hendelmeyer Park into pickleball courts.

Park District Director Jeff Althoff said crews are installing sleeves that will allow installation of permanent nets. Althoff once the installation is completed, the courts will be allowed to cure for about a month, then the courts will be painted.

Althoff also reported on fundraising efforts for expansion of the skate park at Hendelmeyer Park and the development of a dog park at Evergreen Hollow Park. Contact Althoff for more information on the fundraising for both projects.

Rink Management representatives reported that enrollment at Workman Sports and Wellness Complex is down a little due to outdoor activities, but that enrollment is expected to rise as the weather gets worse. There was a report that a major swim meet is scheduled this weekend that could involve as many as 400 participants.

There was discussion of soccer and flag football enrollment. Soccer numbers are consistent with previous years, but flag football participation is down. A combination of the program not being available last year due to the pandemic and a move of some to JFL are seen to be factors in the lower turnout. There will be seven "B" League teams and four "A" League teams in Flag this year.

Park Board members also reviewed activity at Kluthe Memorial Park at Evergreen Hollow Park and what changes might be needed. Althoff said people talk with him about the new pool, and he reminds them that the "new" pool is now 25 years old.