Dottie Bridges Tennis Center (DBTC) has been a thriving staple in Decatur, Georgia for many years. It’s not only a hub for weekly tennis lessons but a vital center for Flex Competitions like T2, League & Ultimate matches. DBTC proudly serves as the home courts for the Southwest DeKalb High School (SWD) Boys & Girls Tennis Team since 2002. A quick glance at the courts displays over 15 winning banners from SWD, USTA, City & State Championships for the past 20 years. These four tennis courts are visited weekly by numerous people from all walks of life, as they strive to improve their overall health, alleviate depression, and enhance cognitive skills.

The proposal to introduce a permanent pickleball court at DBTC threatens to disrupt this harmony. Pickleball, although a popular sport, is very different from tennis in terms of spacing and play style. The transformation of a tennis court into a pickleball court means fewer hours and less space available for tennis enthusiasts, students, and community members who rely on this facility.  
Tennis is not just a sport. It’s a therapeutic escape, a place where friendships blossom, and community ties strengthen. It's essential for our local youth who see it as a path to scholarships and personal growth. By converting these spaces, we dramatically reduce the opportunity for youth development and community engagement.

Moreover, DBTC represents years of tradition in Decatur. Altering the composition of courts will compromise the center's ability to host competitive events efficiently, thereby also affecting local businesses that benefit from these events.

We understand the growing allure of pickleball and believe there are opportunities to incorporate it within the community without jeopardizing existing facilities. Instead of converting tennis courts, let's collaborate on solutions such as constructing new dedicated pickleball spaces that do not encroach on existing tennis facilities.

Preserve the legacy of the Dottie Bridges Tennis Center and ensure that it continues to serve its purpose for generations to come. Envision a solution where both sports can thrive without sacrificing the heritage and function of our beloved DBTC. Sign this petition to voice your opposition against making a permanent pickleball court at our cherished tennis center. Let’s keep our tennis community vibrant and inclusive for all who seek its benefits.