New Pickleball Courts Open at South City Park, Inspiring Healthier Futures in Opelousas
Date: 05/19/26
Opelousas, LA
Community leaders, students, and partners gathered at South City Park today to celebrate the grand opening of new pickleball courts with a high-energy field day hosted for students from Creswell Middle School.
The event marked a major milestone in the ongoing revitalization of the park and community recreation efforts in Opelousas. With $150,000 in funding from Louisiana Healthcare Connections, the new courts provide a safe, engaging space for youth and families to stay active and connected.
“Opportunities like this are critical to the long-term health of our communities,” said Opelousas Mayor Julius Alsandor. “The new pickleball courts are part of a broader vision for South City Park and the city, which will serve as a hub for school athletics, youth leagues, and regional tournaments, including volleyball, basketball, and pickleball.
Students rotated through outdoor activities, including pickleball demonstrations, reinforcing the importance of movement, teamwork, and healthy habits.
Evan Sheppard, Lead External Relations Specialist at Louisiana Healthcare Connections, emphasized the health plan’s commitment to preventative health. “We know that good health starts long before a doctor’s visit. By investing in spaces like South City Park, we’re helping families build healthy routines—through exercise, outdoor play, and community connection.”
Teachers and school leaders also highlighted the impact of the new facility on students.
“Our students need opportunities to get outside, be active, and just be kids,” said Stephanie Senegal, Principal at Creswell Middle School. “This park gives them a place to do that safely while building confidence, friendships, and healthy habits that will last a lifetime.”
South City Park’s expanded amenities are expected to serve schools and the local public, as well as attract regional sports activities and tournaments, bringing new energy and opportunity to the area.
As the first games were played and students filled the courts with excitement, the message was clear: investments in health-focused infrastructure can transform communities—one child, one game, and one park at a time—as Louisiana Healthcare Connections transforms Louisiana’s health, one person at a time.
For more information about Louisiana Healthcare Connections, visit their site.
# # #
About Louisiana Healthcare Connections
A Medicaid health plan serving the Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana Healthcare Connections was launched in 2012 to provide the best benefits and programs possible to improve the overall health of the families and communities we serve. We are a company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), focused on identifying and removing barriers to good health with sustainable solutions that help improve health outcomes. Through a family of engaged employees, dedicated providers and community partners, we deliver care for the health of all with Medicaid Made Personal. For more information, visit their site.