Burrowing Al Reports · Episode 24

Pickleball Has Taken Over

Published September 14, 2026

Courts Cape Coral just picked up a 2026 USTA Outstanding Facility Award, announced locally on September 10 — 12 tennis courts and 32 pickleball courts in one complex. Burrowing Al went to check it out and found roads rerouted around pickleball, a player with six paddles strapped to his back, and a retiree named Gerald who brought sponsors to a "recreational" game.

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Thirty-two courts, zero escape

Courts Cape Coral's USTA award recognizes a complex with 12 tennis courts and 32 dedicated pickleball courts — enough that, per Al's field report, entire streets have effectively been annexed by the sport. Al's GPS rerouted him to another court when he tried to leave.

Then came Gerald: full gear, professional paddle bag, deadly serious about a "recreational" match. Al brought a starter paddle. Al did not survive the exchange with his dignity intact. Big flag, 32 courts — Cape Coral has officially entered its pickleball era.

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