Founded in the fall of 2019, the GC4L Pickleball Association mission is to promote the growth of the sport of pickleball in our community through regularly scheduled open play dates, website and social media promotion, membership and clinic/lessons available through a certified pickleball coach. Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States and can be enjoyed by all ages. Our pickleball association takes pride in our community, membership, promotion, marketing and branding.  We seek to increase the value of each of these amenities through financial means and investment.  As a small association of members ranging in ages between 12 and 62, we believe we can continue to grow post-pandemic for years to come.      

In conjunction with our mission, we believe personal funds should not be a barrier to the community and our members from participation in a largely recreational sport.  The Granite City Park District received a grant through Madison County in 2019 to resurface and install 6 pickleball courts in the same space that were previously occupied by 2 tennis courts.  Providing these courts has increased usage of the GC Park District facilities by citizens of Granite City and surrounding communities.  Our pickleball association regularly welcome players from neighboring communities such as Alton, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Maryville and Mt. Olive. Even though each of these towns have pickleball courts, the Crown Jewel that is Wilson Park becomes a frequent travel destination for pickleball players.