Pickleball has taken Stamford by storm, growing rapidly and drawing a community of enthusiastic players who are eager to enjoy this exciting sport. As a passionate player myself, it's thrilling to see how the game has caught on, helping people of all ages to stay active, connect with others, and foster a sense of community. However, the soaring popularity has also come with its challenges—overcrowding at our beloved courts, particularly during the primetime hours of 5pm to 10pm weeknights and 8am to 11am on weekends.

The Stamford Parks and Recreation Department has done an admirable job of maintaining these courts and making them accessible to the public. Yet, with the surge in popularity, finding available court time during these peak hours has become almost impossible, especially for working members of our community who have limited time in their schedules. This issue not only causes frustration among players but also detracts from the overall experience.

By blocking these hours, we allow a larger number of players to rotate through spots in a the "4 on/4 off" system detailed in the City's recently posted courts rotation sign.  This system keeps the courts running efficiently and reducing the likelihood of long wait times. Moreover, staggering reservations slightly earlier or later in the day can relieve this pressure, making courts more accessible and enhancing the overall player experience.

We urge the Stamford Parks and Recreation Department to consider these adjustments. It's crucial that everyone can enjoy pickleball without undue hassle or unfair access. We love this sport and want to see it continue to blossom in our community in a way that's sustainable for everyone.

Sign this petition to support balanced court access for all and keep the thriving spirit of pickleball alive in Stamford.