The Longview Fire Department in Washington has embraced pickleball as part of their daily physical training and community engagement. Firefighters regularly play at Clary Courts in John Null Park, where the sport not only helps them meet fitness requirements but also fosters positive interactions with local residents. Introduced during the pandemic as an alternative to gym workouts, pickleball has become a popular activity that strengthens bonds between firefighters and the community, allowing residents to learn more about the department’s work and personnel.
This presence at Clary Courts also strategically benefits emergency response times in the area, particularly near the proposed site for a new fire station. Firefighters can quickly respond to calls from the courts, sometimes within 90 seconds, improving containment and reducing damage during incidents. The department’s involvement in the community through pickleball has thus enhanced both public relations and operational efficiency, while supporting their ongoing efforts to establish a third fire station in Longview.
