Imagine a crisp winter day in Meaford. While snow covers the ground outside, inside a modern facility, the sound of racquet sports fills the air. This vision of year-round play is at the heart of the Georgian Bay Racquets Initiative, a community-driven effort to enhance the region’s recreational offerings.
As the community grows in population, so does the need for year-round recreational facilities, reflecting a rising demand for sports and activities that can be enjoyed in all seasons.
“Our region is now bursting with energy and potential,” said Kev Rostami, the initiative’s spokesperson. “We’ve got world-class skiing, hiking, and water sports. But when it comes to racquet sports, we’re leaving opportunity on the table. It’s time to change that.”
The initiative isn’t just about building a dedicated year-round racquets facility in the region – it’s about creating a hub for health, social connection, and community vitality. And the timing couldn’t be better.
Pickleball, often dubbed the fastest-growing sport in North America, saw a remarkable 159 percent increase in participation between 2019 and 2022, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. This trend is evident in Canada as communities embrace the sport. Tennis, with 87 million global players, continues to captivate audiences, while squash is experiencing a renaissance, with participation in North America up 66% since 2010.
“This isn’t just about keeping up with trends,” explained Dr. Rasha Tawfik, a local physician and avid tennis player. “It’s about investing in our community’s health and longevity. A 25-year study in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that racquet sports like tennis can add up to ten years to your life. Ten years! That’s not just recreation – that’s something so much bigger.”
The vision goes beyond simply constructing a building with some courts. The Georgian Bay Racquets Initiative aims to create a true community cornerstone.
“We’re talking about a place where a 70-year-old can learn pickleball in the morning, kids can take after-school tennis lessons, and young professionals can blow off steam with a game of squash in the evening,” explained Rostami.
Tom Kern, a local tennis pro with over 45 years of experience in the racquets recreation industry, believes this facility has the potential to make a significant impact.
“Our region has the potential – and the necessary accommodation options – to host racquets tournaments that attract visitors from across Canada. At the same time, we face challenges in nurturing young talent. Ontario currently lacks year-round facilities for young athletes to train and compete, but our area possesses all the elements needed to significantly transform that landscape. This initiative could truly be a win-win for everyone involved,” said Kern.
Local business owner Denis Martinek of Tyrolean Village in The Blue Mountains stated, “After observing recreation trends in this area for many years, I believe this initiative could be a significant addition to our four-season offerings. My family has a longstanding history of providing racquet facilities in the region, and I know from experience that such facilities are not only beneficial for the community but also serve as valuable attractions for our tourism-based economy.”
The Georgian Bay Racquets Initiative has launched an online survey (available at georgianbayracquets.ca until February 2025) to gauge community interest and shape the project’s direction.
“Early response has been nothing short of electric, with more than two hundred respondents already voicing their support in just one week,” said organizers.
“The enthusiasm we’re seeing is off the charts,” Rostami said. “But we need everyone’s voice to make this a reality. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner at your favourite racquet sport, everyone’s input is crucial.”
To learn more, register your interest, and participate in the community survey, visit georgianbayracquets.ca. The Georgian Bay Racquets Initiative is an independent community group dedicated to exploring recreational opportunities in the South Georgian Bay area.
