About US

MISSION

The responsibility of the Foundation’s Board of Directors is to advise, govern, oversee policy and direction, and assist with the leadership and general promotion of the Foundation so as to support the growth of pickleball facilities and programs for the benefit of the public.

CURRENT INITIATIVE

We are currently focused on raising funds for a new state-of-the-art pickleball facility at the Howard Memorial Sports Park, which is also home to the Rogue X.

In April of 2024 the Wes Howard Memorial Sports Foundation (WHMSF) and the Southern Oregon Pickleball Association/Southern Oregon Pickleball Foundation signed an agreement that will allow for the construction of a multi-court pickleball complex at the Howard Sports Memorial Park. The complex is a public facility that is underwritten by both public and private funds. The SOPF will be the lead on raising funds for the facility.

With nearly $1.7 million already invested in the infrastructure, we now must raise an additional $2 million to complete the project. Our campaign is positioned to offer the regional pickleball community, as well as the broader community, an opportunity to support this exciting endeavor.

This new facility will serve as a hub for our community, allowing us to host larger events, tournaments, lessons and clinics. It will also provide ample space for both drop-in recreational play and competitive play for all community members.

We envision a complex, with 18 outdoor courts and 1 championship court. Depending on the funds raised, the goal would be to have the courts covered.

Beyond enhancing Southern Oregon’s recreational options, the facility is expected to generate significant economic benefits, drawing visitors, boosting tourism, and supporting local businesses through increased activity in lodging, dining and retail.