April 14, 2022

Avera plans to add 12 pickleball courts to its Avera on Louise Health Campus in southwest Sioux Falls.

Construction and development of the 12 courts, along with lighting and a restroom facility, will begin in mid-May on land east of the Avera Human Performance Center next to 77th Street.

When the $1.5 million project is complete in early August, courts will be open and free to use by the public.

Post-tension concrete slab construction in the courts will provide for longer durability and protect against cracking or settling, Avera said. A new parking lot also will be developed near the courts for ease of access.

Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and pingpong. It can be played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court with a slightly modified tennis net. Two or four players can play with simple equipment that involves paddles and a plastic ball with holes. It can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Avera also offers a pickleball membership for indoor playing at the Avera Human Performance Center.

“We look forward to the positive impact this will have in our community,” said John Mathison, Avera vice president of specialty clinics. “These courts will allow community members of all ages a chance to get out, have fun and live a healthy lifestyle.”

The courts will not be lit and will have hours similar to city parks, Avera said.

The Avera Human Performance Center serves athletes of all ages and ability levels with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. It’s home to sports medicine and performance training, performance nutrition, orthopedic urgent care, physical and occupational therapy and other support programs.