Pickleball group, Pines district end discussion on 10-court addition

A year-long discussion has come to an end regarding the possibility of bringing pickleball courts to the grounds of Northland Pines Middle and High School.

The Eagle River Pickleball Association (ERPA) and Northland Pines School District (NPSD) have been engaged in discussions over the past year regarding a potential partnership to construct a 10-court pickleball facility on school property in Eagle River.

Denny Erardi, ERPA vice president and chairperson of the New Courts Committee, said both organizations entered the negotiations with the shared goal of enhancing recreational opportunities for the community, students, and the growing number of pickleball players in the Eagle River area.

A statement was released jointly by the two entities saying, “Throughout the process, representatives from both ERPA and NPSD worked collaboratively and in good faith to explore a range of possibilities that would meet the needs of all involved. Despite these sincere efforts, the two parties were ultimately unable to reach an agreement that would be mutually beneficial and sustainable for both the association and the school district.”

“Even though it became clear that certain requirements and priorities could not be fully aligned, both sides deeply appreciate the time, energy, and thoughtful discussion that went into the process,” Erardi added. “ERPA extends its gratitude to the Northland Pines School District administration and staff for their openness and engagement during these negotiations.”

He noted that the association remains committed to finding a viable path forward for building new pickleball courts in the Eagle River area to serve its 300-plus members and the broader community.

“ERPA and NPSD part on positive terms, wishing each other continued success in their respective efforts to support recreation, health, and community engagement. ERPA remains committed to providing programming which includes the students and faculty of NPSD in the forms of clinics, instruction, drills and playing, in a collaborative effort,” the statement concluded.