In our busy lives, it can be hard to find time to spend with family. Between work, school, extracurricular activities, and other commitments, it’s easy for family members to become disconnected from one another.

One powerful way to strengthen bonds between family members and create lasting memories together is through sports. Having your own outdoor tennis, pickleball, or basketball court provides the perfect opportunity for families to come together and learn valuable lessons while having fun.

In this blog post, we will explore the lessons kids learn playing sports with family and why it’s essential to make these activities a part of your family’s routine.

#1. Teamwork and Cooperation

One of the most important lessons kids learn while playing sports with family and friends is the importance of teamwork and cooperation. Whether it’s a pickleball game with their sibling, a friendly tennis match, or a competitive basketball game with the neighbors, working together is one of the keys to success. 

Children learn that when they collaborate with others, they can achieve greater success than they could on their own. These lessons in teamwork extend beyond the court and can be applied to the classroom and future workplaces.

#2. Communication Skills

Effective communication is an important life skill, and sports provide an excellent opportunity for children to practice it. On the court, players must communicate with each other to coordinate strategies and movements. This constant exchange of information helps children improve both their verbal and non-verbal communication skills, fostering better relationships with family and friends.

#3. Sportsmanship and Respect

Another lesson children learn from playing sports with family and friends is sportsmanship. This is a fundamental aspect of any game, and whether they win or lose, kids who play with their parents and siblings can develop a sense of sportsmanship and respect for their teammates and opponents. These children learn to handle both victory and loss with humility and grace, qualities that will be valuable throughout their lives.

#4. Perseverance and Resilience

In sports, you won’t always win — just as in life. In playing sports with family, children learn the value of perseverance and resilience in the face of defeat. They understand that failure is part of the game, but doesn’t define them. Instead, kids learn to treat these setbacks as valuable opportunities to learn and grow, a mindset that will serve them well in any future endeavors.

#5. Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Playing sports with family members encourages children to lead an active lifestyle. It provides a healthier alternative to screen time and other sedentary activities, promoting physical fitness and improving overall well-being. If these habits are established during childhood, they are more likely to continue into adulthood, promoting longevity and reducing their risk of developing health issues.

#6. Goal Setting and Achievement

Setting and achieving goals are valuable abilities, and sports offer a tangible way for children to practice these skills. Whether it’s improving their serve in tennis or gaining greater accuracy in basketball, children can set incremental goals and work steadily toward them by consistently practicing on their home court. These accomplishment boosts their self-esteem and motivates them to work hard in other areas of life.

#7. Bonding and Quality Time

Perhaps the most significant benefit of playing sports with family is the opportunity for bonding. In the busy world of today, many families struggle to find time to connect. Playing sports together in the backyard provides a dedicated time for family members to have fun and create lasting memories. These shared experiences will strengthen bonds and build relationships that will last a lifetime.

#8. Sportsmanship Extends Beyond the Court

The lessons kids learn from playing sports with family extend far beyond the court. As they grow and mature, they will carry these values and skills into their academic pursuits, interpersonal relationships, and careers. They become well-rounded people who know how to work as part of a team, communicate effectively with others, handle adversity, and lead a balanced, healthy life.

Pickle Court Surfacing Makes Playing Sports With Family Easy

Playing sports together as a family provides many benefits for children’s development, but it can sometimes be hard to find the time to make it to the park or rec center. Having your very own outdoor court at home makes it simple and convenient to fit family time into your schedule. 

At Pickle Court Surfacing, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality outdoor courts to families and communities. Our expert team members can guide you through every step of the process, from selecting and preparing the location to installing and maintaining your new court. Visit our website for a free estimate today!

As temperatures drop and the winter rolls in, many people decide it’s time to put away their sports equipment and wait for spring. However, with a little preparation, you can continue to use your outdoor court in winter, whether it’s for pickleball, basketball, tennis, or other games. 

Keep reading to discover 10 clever tips for making the most of your outdoor court in winter, ensuring it provides fun times for your family year-round.

#1. Surface Maintenance is Essential

The first and most important step in making the most of your outdoor court in winter is surface maintenance. Harsh weather conditions, including snow and ice, can take a toll on court surfaces, potentially causing cracks or birdbaths. Regularly inspect your court and promptly repair any damage. Depending on the type of court surface and the extent of the damage, you might need to consult a professional for maintenance and resurfacing.

#2. Keep the Court Clear

Snow can quickly accumulate on your outdoor court in winter, making it unusable. Don’t let ice build up on your court’s surface — use snow removal tools like shovels and snow blowers to keep it clear and prevent damage. Be cautious when using ice melt products like salt, though, because some chemicals may damage the court. For further recommendations on how to safely de-ice your court, check with the manufacturer or installer.

#3, Weatherproof Your Equipment

Your court isn’t the only thing that needs protection during the colder months. Your sports equipment, including paddles, tennis balls, rackets, and basketballs, should be stored in a dry, climate-controlled space to prevent damage from moisture and freezing temperatures. Once you’re done using your equipment, make sure you put it back in the garage or shed to keep it in good condition.

#4. Dress for Success

When playing on your outdoor court in winter, it’s vital to dress appropriately. Make sure you layer your clothing to stay warm and comfortable during your games. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry, with an insulating fleece jacket or down coat on top to provide warmth. Plus, don’t forget to wear gloves, as well, to protect your hands from the cold.

#5. Optimize Lighting

Winter days are shorter, which means you may find yourself playing in the dark. Make sure your court has adequate lighting to maintain visibility and safety. Consider installing LED lights, which are energy-efficient and can help you save money on your electricity bill. 

#6. Adjust Playing Times

Winter weather can be unpredictable. Conditions such as freezing temperatures, snow, and rain can affect the ability to play on your outdoor court. Be flexible with your playing schedule and adjust playing times to accommodate for weather conditions. Try to stick to playing during the warmest parts of the day, like the early afternoon, to make your playtime more enjoyable.

#7. Use All-Weather Accessories

Invest in all-weather accessories, including windscreens, portable heaters, and warming stations, to make your outdoor court more inviting and create a comfortable playing environment year-round.

#8. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential, no matter the weather. You may not feel as thirsty during the winter as you do on hot summer days, but it’s crucial to drink plenty of water while playing on your outdoor court in winter. Dehydration can negatively affect your athletic performance and increase your risk of injury, so make sure you keep a bottle of water handy and take periodic breaks to rehydrate.

#9. Adapt Your Game

Winter conditions may require you to make some adjustments to your game. A cold court may cause your basketball to bounce differently, and the winter wind may require you to change the trajectory of your shots. Take time to practice and adapt to these conditions.

Additionally, you may want to opt for brightly-colored or reflective equipment to make tracking easier when it’s overcast or foggy.

#10. Embrace the Season

Don’t forget to embrace the unique experience of playing on an outdoor court in winter. The snow-covered surroundings and crisp, clean air can create a magical feeling unlike anything else. With the right tools and preparation, the winter season can be a great time to make memories while playing sports with family and friends.

Take Care of Your Outdoor Court in Winter

No matter the time of year, if your outdoor court needs maintenance, call the experts at Pickle Court Surfacing. We have everything you need to create a high-quality, comfortable playing environment in your own backyard. Contact us today for a free estimate.

Tennis, pickleball, and basketball enthusiasts know the frustration of trying to enjoy a game on a waterlogged court. Not only do puddles make the court slippery and unsafe, but over time, water accumulation can damage the court. Fortunately, there are effective ways to get rid of puddles and prevent them from coming back, ensuring your outdoor court stays in tip-top shape and withstands the test of time.

Keep reading to learn various strategies to get rid of puddles on your outdoor court so you can play the sport you love without interruptions.

Proper Drainage System

To prevent puddles from forming on the surface of your court, a proper drainage system is essential. Without efficient drainage, water will accumulate, causing pesky puddles and preventing you from playing your best. Here are some drainage options to consider:

• Permeable surfaces: Instead of letting water collect on top of the court, permeable court surfaces like porous asphalt or concrete allow water to seep through and be absorbed into the ground below.
• French drains: French drains, which are installed around the perimeter of the court, can help divert excess water away from the court’s playing area.
• Subsurface drainage: A subsurface drainage system, such as a network of pipes, can be an effective solution for removing excess water from beneath the court and is a great complement to permeable court surfaces.

Court Sloping

Another important element of court drainage and preventing puddles is sloping. Ideally, outdoor courts should have a gentle slope to encourage water to flow away from the playing area. In most cases, a 1-2% slope is enough to ensure proper drainage. If your court is inadequately sloped, consult with a professional to make any necessary adjustments and make sure your court won’t be as prone to puddling.

Court Maintenance

Proper court maintenance is another effective way to get rid of puddles on your court. Keep in mind these practices as you consider what your court needs:

• Clear debris: Leaves, dirt, and other debris can build up in drainage systems, rendering them ineffective and allowing puddles to form. Regularly sweep your court or use a leaf blower to remove any debris.
• Repair cracks: Cracks in the court surface can trap water and contribute to puddles. To maintain a smooth and even surface, make sure you repair cracks as soon as they happen.
• Resurface as needed: Over time, normal wear and tear can cause your court surface to become uneven. Periodic resurfacing can help water drain properly and prevent problematic puddles.
• Consider a sealcoat: Applying a sealcoat to your outdoor court extends its lifespan and improves water runoff.

Court Covers

Outdoor court covers are a game-changing investment that can help protect your court from whatever comes its way, whether it be rain, snow, hail, or fallen leaves. These covers prevent moisture from seeping into the court’s surface and wreaking havoc. They are easy to roll out and can be a valuable element of outdoor court maintenance because they allow you to keep your court dry and ready to play on.

Improve Court Surface

The right type of court surface can make a significant difference in puddle prevention. Some softer surfaces, like clay, are known to be more prone to puddles than harder surfaces like acrylic. Acrylic courts are more resistant to weathering and erosion, drain water more efficiently, and provide industry-leading durability. Hard courts also offer greater traction and reduce the chances of slipping.

Routine Inspections

Make sure you regularly inspect your court, especially if you’re having puddle problems. Frequently check the court’s surface and drainage systems, along with the surrounding area, for any signs of damage or blockage. By catching issues early, you can prevent them from escalating and maintain optimal playing conditions.

Squeegees and Towels

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, puddles can still form after heavy precipitation. Having the right tools on hand will allow you to address the issue quickly and avoid significant damage. Squeegees and towels are effective tools to manually get rid of puddles, so make sure you have them readily available just in case. The right preparation can help you expedite the process of puddle removal and prevent significant game delays.

Pickle Court Surfacing Can Help You Get Rid of Puddles

At Pickle Court Surfacing, we are experts in outdoor courts and can help you solve any problems with your court, including pesky puddles. We pride ourselves in creating high-quality outdoor courts that are sure to last. For more information, feel free to reach out to us today!