A petition on Change.org asks Gov. J.B. Pritzker to reopen state tennis, paddleball and pickleball courts.
A petition on Change.org asks Gov. J.B. Pritzker to reopen state tennis, paddleball and pickleball courts.
A petition is circulating on Change.org asking Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker to allow pickleball, tennis and paddleball to be played in the state.
Chris Warner started the petition.
“We are hoping Gov. Pritzker will allow Illinoisans to participate in outdoor activities such as tennis, pickleball, and paddle in a safe way, following CDC guidelines," he said. "These activities lend themselves to having appropriate social distancing, while allowing citizens to get exercise, fresh air, and social interaction. We strongly believe that if you can open marinas and golf courses, then tennis courts, pickleball courts and paddle tennis courts should be opened as well.”
Judging by the number of signatures and comments on the petition, he’s not the only advocate for this position. In just a week’s time, more than 10,000 individuals have signed.
Lake Forest resident Denise Murphy wrote:
“Now, more than ever, communities need safe, healthy outlets that challenge the mind and body. All racquet sports do just that. Tennis, platform tennis, pickle ball etc. can be played keeping a safe social distance. Facemasks and gloves can even be worn while playing. Please consider opening up public racquets facilities."
Whitney Oneill, urged personal responsibility as far as respecting social distancing and other rules meant to protect people from the COVID-19 virus.
“Tennis can be played safely," said Stephen Hess of Aurora. "The distance between players is 75 feet. If two people can sit in a boat together or golf, tennis should also be safe enough.”
Many individuals have voiced opposition to Pritzker's stay-at-home order because it keeps people indoors and prevents exercising in” the fresh air.
Warner noted there are safe ways to reopen these racket sports such as setting a limit of four or fewer players per court, adding "doubles players are required to wear facemasks and eye wear.”
The petition is available at: https://www.change.org/p/governor-pritzker-allow-tennis-pickleball-and-paddle-to-be-played-in-illinois
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