Wheeling, W.Va. — The city officially opened the new Pat Carroll Pickleball Courts at the Patterson Sports Complex in Elm Grove on Thursday, drawing dozens of players eager to take part in the celebration.
The grand opening followed months of construction and years of local advocacy led by longtime pickleball supporter Pat Carroll. The new facility, named in his honor, replaces two former tennis courts with eight brand-new pickleball courts — giving the community a modern space for one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports.
Ward 6 Councilman Dave Palmer, who represents the Elm Grove area, said Carroll was instrumental in introducing pickleball to Wheeling. “Pat was so dedicated that he once used his own money to refinish an old tennis court to make it playable,” Palmer said. “It started small but really took off. Now it’s one of the most popular sports for all ages.”
Carroll, who first discovered pickleball while spending winters in Florida, said he’s proud to see how the sport has grown locally. “At first it was slow going, but now it’s huge,” he said. “Pickleball is as much about the friendships as it is about exercise — anyone can play, whether you’re 10 or 90.”
With the expanded courts, Wheeling can now host tournaments that attract players from across West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The project cost just over $100,000, with funding partly provided through federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. Local contractors, including Semper Fi Paving of Bridgeport, Valley Fence Company of Wheeling, and Recreation Resources USA of Pennsylvania, helped complete the work alongside city departments.
Mayor Denny Magruder praised the new courts as a major addition to Wheeling’s recreational offerings. “Pickleball has become one of the most popular activities in the country,” Magruder said. “These courts give people of all ages and skill levels a great place to play and connect.”
City Manager Robert Herron added that the project reflects Wheeling’s investment in recreation and community wellness. “We’re thrilled to see how passionate residents are about pickleball,” Herron said. “These courts will serve the community for many years to come.”
The courts quietly opened for play last week ahead of Thursday’s ribbon cutting, giving players an early chance to enjoy the upgraded facility.
