Shelton Haynes and Akeem Jamal, two experienced entrepreneurs, have recently announced plans to introduce pickleball to Roosevelt Island in 2023. The initiative aims to provide residents and visitors a fresh and thrilling approach to remain active and engaged in the community.
Roosevelt Island, located in New York City, is a diminutive isle in the East River that has experienced substantial expansion and progress in the past few years. The island is home to over 12,000 residents and is served by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC), a public benefit corporation that oversees the island’s infrastructure, services, and public spaces.
Shelton Haynes, a former college basketball player and founder of Active Plus, a sports and fitness company, believes that introducing pickleball to Roosevelt Island will significantly impact the community. “Pickleball is a great sport for people of all ages and skill levels,” Haynes says. “It’s simple to comprehend, enjoyable to participate in, and an excellent means of remaining physically engaged and socially connected.”
Akeem Jamal, the founder of AJ Squared Sports, a sports marketing and Management Company, shares Haynes’ enthusiasm for the project. “Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country,” Jamal says. “We’re excited to bring this fun and engaging activity to Roosevelt Island and help residents and visitors get involved in a new and exciting way.”
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation has expressed support for the initiative and looks forward to working with Haynes and Jamal to bring pickleball to the island. “We’re continually seeking novel and inventive methods to improve the standard of living for our inhabitants and visitors,” says RIOC President Charlene Indelicato. “Pickleball is a great addition to the island’s recreational offerings, and we’re excited to see this project come to fruition.”
Currently, the initiative is in the developmental phase, and Haynes and Jamal are working with the RIOC to identify suitable locations for the pickleball courts. They are also exploring partnerships with local businesses and organizations to promote the sport and engage the community.
In conclusion, Shelton Haynes and Akeem Jamal’s initiative to bring pickleball to Roosevelt Island in 2023 is an exciting development for the island’s residents and visitors. With the support of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation, the project has the potential to provide a fresh and captivating approach for individuals to stay active and involved in the community.