Pickleball at City Park | Sid’s Night Under the Lights
City Park Pickleball
There’s something about showing up, even when you can’t play, that keeps your love for pickleball alive. I’ve been sidelined recently with a foot injury, and while I couldn’t join the action on the court, I still made the trip to City Park to watch my son AJ and the rest of our crew battle it out under the lights. Some nights are about reps and grind. This one was about friendship, laughter, and staying in the rhythm of the game, even from the sidelines.
A Change of Pace
Being injured is never easy, especially when your body says rest but your heart says rally. I’ve been off the court for a few days, letting my right foot heal, but I didn’t want to miss another evening with my crew. So I packed up a chair, hobbled into the car, and met everyone at the City Park pickleball courts.
It was already dark when we arrived, but the courts were lit and buzzing with energy. Dev, Mark, Patrick, John, and Jenn were already warming up. Doug and Tuna rolled in a bit late (as usual), but the vibe was light, the competition tight, and the camaraderie unmatched.
The City Park Experience
If you haven’t played at City Park, it’s worth a trip. The courts are well-maintained and there’s a casual, neighborhood feel that makes everyone feel welcome. Even though the posted closing time is 9 PM, our group was able to keep playing until around 9:45, thanks to a little grace from the staff and a whole lot of good vibes.
- Location: Right in the heart of New Orleans, City Park is accessible and community-driven
- Lighting: Night play is fully supported with bright overhead lights
- Surface: Smooth, consistent, and ideal for doubles
- Community: You’ll often find regulars rallying deep into the evening
Watching the matches that night reminded me why I love this game. Everyone has their own rhythm, their own tendencies. Jenn’s resets were silky. Patrick had a few wild-but-effective lobs. AJ is still finding his shot selection, but his footwork keeps improving with every game.
Connection > Competition
One thing that stood out that night was how invested we all are in each other’s progress. Sure, it’s fun to win. But it’s even better to see someone figure out a shot they’ve been working on, or hold their own against a stronger team. We spent as much time talking as playing, debating paddle choices, rehashing last weekend’s tournament, and laughing at Doug’s one-legged Erne attempt that turned into a sprawl-and-slide.
PickleTip Pro Insight: If you’re ever sidelined with an injury, don’t disappear. Stay involved. Observe. Support. You’ll learn more watching your crew play than you think, and it’ll keep your game mind sharp for when you’re back.
Why City Park Matters to Me
City Park isn’t just another place to play. It’s where our group has grown the most. This is where AJ learned to anticipate dinks and where I first played after recovering from my previous achiles injury. It’s where we celebrate each other’s milestones, both big and small. I may not have hit a ball that night, but I left City Park feeling more connected to the game, and to the people who make it meaningful.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in New Orleans and looking for a vibrant place to play, City Park delivers. Whether you’re in recovery, just starting out, or chasing medals, it’s a space that welcomes every kind of player. I’ll be back on the court soon, but until then, I’ll keep showing up, because showing up matters.
Have your own favorite memory at City Park? Let me know, I’d love to feature it in a future entry.
