Waterford Oaks County Park is in the process of renovating its two R.J. Reilly courts platform tennis courts to also formalize pickleball play as participation in this activity continues to grow.  These renovations have been made possible by funding from the American Rescue Plan Act.

The courts are currently open on a first-come, first-served basis for both activities.  Play can continue throughout the winter months. After snow is removed, the courts’ special floor heating units provide a dry playing surface.

The courts are located at 1702 Scott Lake Road in Waterford.

Platform tennis information

Rules: Rules differ from tennis with one serve and use of screening to keep the ball in play.

The Court: The game is played on an elevated aluminum deck, one-quarter the size of a tennis court. Surrounded by a 12-foot high superstructure, taut 16-gauge "chicken wire" fencing allows play off the walls, similar to racquetball and squash. The base of a platform tennis court is usually enclosed, where a heating system beneath the deck melts snow and ice on the aggregate deck surface, allowing athletes to play outdoors in all weather conditions.

Equipment: Platform tennis paddles are made of a composite material with aerodynamic holes drilled in the head. Paddles are approximately 18" long. The spongy rubber ball measures 2.5 inches in diameter. A flocking material on its exterior keeps the ball from skidding.

Learn more about platform tennis

Oakland County Parks is a proud sponsor of the Michigan Senior Olympics.