TUCSON, Arizona — Starting on January 1, 2026, pickleball players at the Kino Sports Complex will be required to reserve courts in advance through a newly established online reservation system. This initiative aims to enhance player experience by ensuring that courts are available upon arrival, eliminating the uncertainty of waiting for an open court.
According to Sarah Horvath, director of the Kino Sports Complex, the popularity of the facility has surged, with nearly 40,000 people expected to utilize the pickleball courts in 2024. “Unfortunately, sometimes that can lead to long wait times,” she noted. “This new system solves that problem.”
The South Complex, which opened in 2020, features 20 lighted pickleball courts. Until now, access to these courts has operated on a first-come, first-served basis, except during private events or tournaments. The new reservation system will streamline access for all players.
In conjunction with the reservation system, a user fee of $10 per hour will be implemented. For a group of four players, this fee will translate to $2.50 per person per hour. The revenue generated from this system will be allocated towards the maintenance of the pickleball courts, ensuring they meet the standards required for current and future tournaments.
The changes reflect a growing trend in recreational facilities aiming to manage high demand while enhancing user satisfaction. As pickleball continues to gain popularity across various demographics, this move by Pima County is likely to improve the overall experience for players and maintain the quality of facilities at Kino Sports Complex.
With these adjustments, Pima County aims to balance accessibility and quality, making it easier for pickleball enthusiasts to enjoy their time on the courts while also ensuring the facilities remain in excellent condition for years to come.
