Belleville Is Launching Basketball, Pickleball Leagues For Adults

BELLEVILLE, NJ — The fun isn’t just for kids anymore.

For the first time ever, Belleville Township will be rolling out adult programming through its recreation department, officials recently announced. The first two activities on the list? Basketball and pickleball games.

Interim recreation director Lenny Averhoff said the popularity of both sports led to their choice as the department’s inaugural offerings.

“When we offer our pickleball lessons, the time slots fill up in a day or two,” said Averhoff, a longtime coach in the town’s recreation department and a football coach at Belleville High School.

Here’s what to know:

BASKETBALL – The Belleville Recreation Department is launching a co-ed basketball league that will feature half-court, three-on-three play. Teams can have up to five players, but there must be at least one woman and one man on the court at all times. Games are scheduled for each Saturday 1-4 p.m. at the Friendly House in the Silver Lake section of Belleville.

PICKLEBALL – The township will be organizing a pickleball league featuring doubles play open to residents 18 and over. Games will be played each Saturday 9 a.m. to noon at the Belleville Municipal Stadium Complex. Single registrants are welcome.

The deadline to register for the pickleball and basketball leagues is July 20. Play will begin July 27.

The cost is $50 per team, and checks and money orders should be made out to the Township of Belleville. For more information, call 973-450-3422.

Mayor Michael Melham said the new offerings are a good way to spend some quality time with your neighbors.

“Not only are sports and recreation activities important to healthy lifestyles, but they help connect residents with their neighbors and represent a great way to make new friends,” Melham said.

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