Warringah Bowling Club Members Divided Over Proposal to Introduce Pickleball Courts
Warringah Bowling Club in Mosman is considering a major change that could potentially transform the club and attract a new demographic of members. Club secretary Liarne Peek has announced plans to introduce pickleball courts, with the aim of increasing foot traffic and boosting the club’s financial stability.
Despite concerns from some members about potential noise disturbances and aesthetic changes to the bowling greens, Peek is confident that the majority of the club’s 1197 members will vote in favor of the proposal. The addition of pickleball courts is projected to increase the club’s turnover by 37%, mainly from food and drink sales, and reduce the cost of maintaining the bowling greens.
Local pickleball player Charlie Sutton has welcomed the proposal, highlighting the lack of available courts in the area and the accessibility of pickleball as a sport for all ages. Mosman Pickleball director Tom Haslam also emphasized the positive impact of the sport on the community, bringing together people from all demographics.
The club members will have the opportunity to vote on the proposal on April 14, with a simple majority required for it to pass. While some members like Andrew Woodforth are concerned about the longevity of pickleball as a trend, Peek remains optimistic about the positive reception from the majority of the club’s members.
The potential introduction of pickleball courts at Warringah Bowling Club represents a significant shift for the traditional bowling club, aiming to revitalize the club and attract a new generation of members.