New tennis, pickleball courts open in Mansfield

Even before the new tennis and pickleball courts at Thomson Trail Park in Mansfield officially opened, Mulmur Mayor Janet Horner drove past and was delighted to see community members using them.

Horner says the courts, constructed with a $150,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium Fund, are an important addition to the recreational facilities on offer in the township.

“When we did our Recreation Master Plan in 2021, it was noted that young people have access to facilities like ball diamonds and the arena, but we have just as many residents over the age of 65 as under 19,” she said.

Horner expects the pickleball courts will appeal to all ages.

Pickleball lessons offered at the Primrose Elementary School for the past two winters mean there are plenty of enthusiasts in the area. While Mulmur has long had its share of private tennis courts, said Horner, this is the first public court which will be accessible to the entire community.

Horner told those assembled for the grand opening that, while council sets the direction, it is the work of township staff, who write the grant applications, that makes things happen.

Dufferin Caledon MPP Sylvia Jones was on hand for the ribbon cutting. She noted that assessment of all the funding applications received by the Ontario Trillium Foundation is conducted by volunteers.

“We are always looking for capable people to assist in that capacity, and it can be a really exciting way to give back to the community,” said Jones.

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Jones’ office.

To inquire about using the new pickleball/tennis facilities, visit www. mulmur.ca.