A recent redevelopment plan for Hancock Field in Leland has sparked surprise and concern among long-time users. The plan, fast-tracked by the Leland Township Board, includes the construction of eight new pickleball courts on the baseball infield. This decision moved quickly from an RFP in June to a lightly attended public hearing in August, then a board motion in September approving the plan for public presentation. Many regular patrons, especially families involved in youth sports, were unaware of significant changes to the planned uses of Hancock Field until after the initial approval.
The rationale for tripling the existing number of pickleball courts from four to twelve centers on several arguments from township officials: pickleball’s growing popularity; its appeal to older athletes; and cost efficiency in building all courts at once. Additionally, a 2024 recreation survey cited pickleball as “extremely” or “very” important by a majority of the 224 respondents, though it actually ranked eighth in interest, behind other activities like lake access, swimming, hiking, and children’s play.
The placement of the new courts on the baseball field seems primarily due to “perceived” space constraints. Eight courts require a 140ft by 140ft area, which is only available on the current baseball infield. Had the plan called for just four additional courts, they could have been located near the parking lot instead.
