Cadillac, MI – The Rotary Club of Cadillac has selected the development of community pickleball courts at Baker College’s Cadillac campus as its major project for the 2026–2027 Rotary year. The initiative will create a new recreational destination for residents, students, and visitors while strengthening community partnerships and expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Cadillac area.
The project will establish the Rotary Club of Cadillac Community Pickleball Courts at Baker College, providing a welcoming space for individuals of all ages and skill levels to enjoy one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports.
The initial plan calls for the construction of two outdoor pickleball courts, with the potential to expand to more courts depending on fundraising success. The courts will be located on the Baker College Cadillac campus and available for community use.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Rotary Club of Cadillac for selecting this project,” said Randy Hill, Campus Director of Baker College Cadillac. “This partnership is about much more than building pickleball courts. It’s about bringing people together, creating opportunities for our students and community members, and making our campus a destination for recreation and engagement. We want Baker College to be a place where the community feels welcome, whether they’re here to take a class, attend an event, or enjoy our outdoor facilities.”
The project builds upon Baker College’s ongoing efforts to expand recreational opportunities on its Cadillac campus, including the opening of its 18-hole disc golf course, The Hive at Baker College, earlier this year.
Beyond recreational use, the pickleball courts will provide opportunities for community tournaments, leagues, clinics, student activities, and fundraising events. The project is also expected to attract new visitors to campus, support local businesses, and introduce prospective students and their families to Baker College.
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“The Rotary Club of Cadillac is excited to select the community pickleball courts at Baker College as our major project for the 2026–2027 Rotary year,” said Chad Denike, President of the Rotary Club of Cadillac. “Rotary has a long tradition of investing in projects that make our community a better place to live, work, and play. This project will provide a recreational opportunity for people of all ages, encourage healthy and active lifestyles, and create another gathering place for our community. We’re especially excited to partner with Baker College on a project that will have a lasting impact for years to come.”
As the club’s major project, the initiative will be supported through the Rotary Club of Cadillac’s annual auction and additional fundraising activities throughout the 2026–2027 Rotary year. Rotary’s annual auction, the club’s largest fundraising event, will take place on Saturday, May 22, 2027, at Nanbop Farm. Proceeds from the auction will help fund the pickleball court project.
Rotary members, Baker College faculty, staff, and students, along with community partners, will work collaboratively to raise the funds needed to bring the project to completion. Local businesses and community members will have opportunities to support the initiative through sponsorships, donations, and participation in upcoming fundraising events.
“This is a tremendous example of what can happen when community organizations and educational institutions work together toward a shared goal,” Hill added. “We’re excited to partner with Rotary to create something that will benefit the Cadillac community for years to come.”
Additional information about fundraising initiatives, sponsorship opportunities, and the project timeline will be announced as plans progress.
The Rotary Club of Cadillac is a service organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Cadillac area through community service, charitable giving, and collaborative projects. As part of Rotary International, the club brings together local leaders and volunteers committed to making a positive and lasting impact.
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at Baker.edu and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.
