NILES — A year after the Michiana Pickleball Association and the Niles Township Parks Commission teamed up to get the courts at South Firemen’s Park resurfaced, the group will host an open house Saturday.

The former tennis courts were refitted for pickleball use in 2016. A pickleball court is somewhat smaller than a tennis court.

Once the change was made, the courts at Firemen’s Park proved to be popular and somewhat crowded until other communities, including Dowagiac, created their own pickleball courts.

But the demand for courts continued to grow along with the sport and once again court time has become a premium.

So late last year, the MPA asked the parks commission if it would refurbish the courts on Bell Road, which is now complete and ready for play.

On Saturday, the MPA will host an open house from noon until 4 p.m. to introduce the sport to those who are interested in becoming participants and to long-time players.

Some light snacks will be provided while the basics are explained and players take part in a game or two.

Representatives from MPA will be on-site to talk with guests who have questions or wish to join the MPA ladder league which will be playing Tuesday evenings at the South Firemen’s Park courts.

The MPA will once again be hosting leagues on Tuesday nights. Beginners nights will also be offered on every second and fourth Monday throughout the summer. For further information about pickleball, go to nbcnews.com/better/lifestyle/pickleball-fastest-growing-sport-you-ve-never-heard-ncna992106