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Pickleball open play program will continue through August

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Local pickleball players now have the ability to sign up for open play at the Fruit Street courts.

The Parks & Recreation Department recently announced pickeball open play at the Fruit Street courts through the app PlayTime Scheduler. The open play program runs Wednesdays from 4-7 p.m. and is accessible for players of all ages and skill sets.

“It’s a brand new feature we implemented just a few weeks ago,” explained Parks & Rec Director Jon Lewitus. He noted the program was a more organized way for more competitive players to meet up at certain times.

The free scheduling tool PlayTime Scheduler allows users to create and join play sessions in their area based on skill level. Lewitus said that because so many local pickleball players use the app, it made sense to organize his department’s open play program through it.

There are no limits to how often a player can sign up for the program. Matches go in one-hour blocks, and open play is limited to Wednesdays between 4-7 p.m. Lewitus said the program likely will continue through the end of August, at which time Parks & Rec will re-evaluate.

“We’re a year in [with these courts],” Lewitus said, when asked about why the open play program was instituted. Feedback from players, Parks & Rec Commission members and understanding the demand for the Fruit Street courts played into the decision.

Lewitus encourages players to use the app and visit the courts — alone or with friends. He also noted that paid lessons and drop-in sessions always are available.

More information can be found on the Parks & Rec website. Players using PlayTime Scheduler will find the Fruit Street courts listed under Southern Worcester County in the app.

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Photo of the Day

Players compete in a 3-on-3 game Thursday during the Parks & Rec Summer Basketball Clinic at Hopkinton High School.

PHOTO/JERRY SPAR