Bossier City LA #44 - Something in the air, Bellaire

April 24 2023 - The weather is always an unknown variable when traveling to play pickleball on a tight schedule. This Monday was no exception. Recent weather had local courts questionable for outdoor play. Only indoor play at one location was scheduled in the late morning and attendance at that was questionable. As the morning began it was sunny and in the mid 50s. We took another look at the listing of weekly play that was posted on the Shreveport - Bossier City Pickleball FB page. We noticed Bellaire Pickleball and that they used Court Reserve. Before long we were accepted to their Court Reserve group and were in contact with them about finding some open play. When we arrived no one was on the courts, but we were hoping some players would show up. We went inside and were warmly greeted by the staff.

The four courts were a little over a year old and were in immaculate condition. There was a nice shaded area with tables and chairs between the courts. The courts were lighted for evening play. Each court was fenced in minimizing errant balls from interrupting other players.

Before long, Jack, Kelli and Jeff showed up. They were coming to drill, but graciously played a number of games with us. (Kelli, Jeff and Jack are pictured at the beginning of this blog post.) It was apparent in their play that they valued drilling and the benefits it produces for game play. They played smart pickleball.

Jack is the area USA Pickleball Ambassador and maintains the weekly play list on the Shreveport - Bossier City Pickleball Facebook page. He was instrumental in assisting us as we planned our trip and during our time in Shreveport - Bossier City. Not only is he the local ambassador, he has contacts throughout LA and TX. We are appreciative for his knowledge and assistance.

We are proud to be able to represent Paddletek as we visit the states and are always delighted to meet local players who are also Paddletek fans. 

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Bellaire with Jack, Kelli and Jeff and would seek out these courts and players when in the area again.

Thanks Bellaire Pickleball for the local post on your FB page. Bellaire Fitness is a ministry of the Bellaire Baptist Church. We are seeing a number of churches embracing pickleball and constructing great courts for community play.

When traveling by mini-van, we always take along our bikes to explore local trails. The Arthur R Teague trail on the Bossier City side of the river was a delight to ride on. It's asphalt surface made it easy to traverse and it's length sufficient to give us a worthwhile ride along the Red River.

The Red River Trail on the Shreveport side of the river was a good length, but the trail has not been maintained and I would not recommend it for a ride.