At The Lakes at Hemet West, shuffleboard isn’t just a pastime , it’s part of the culture. And with Hemet proudly known as the Shuffleboard Capital of the World, there couldn’t have been a better time to give the community’s courts a much-deserved refresh.
Just ahead of several of the largest and most anticipated tournaments of the season, the shuffleboard area at The Lakes at Hemet West underwent a renovation that has players excited, grateful, and ready to compete.
Community Manager Debbie Collins shared that the courts are a top priority for the community.
“The shuffleboard courts were high on our list of renovations,” Collins said. “The job was completed by our contractor Mitch out of Arizona, who is well known for being one of the few who still works on these types of courts. We are looking forward to many more years of continued enjoyment as we keep shuffleboard alive and well here at The Lakes at Hemet West.”
The renovation focused on stripping and rebuffing the shuffleboard courts, delivering a noticeably smoother surface and higher-quality finish. The work was completed over the course of two weeks, spread across four days at a time, with half of the room completed first, then the other half, so residents could continue playing throughout the process.
“It’s very nice,” shared Tootie Chittenden, President of Shuffleboard at The Lakes at Hemet West. “We’re very happy and thankful that they let us do it this way so we could still play in the room.”
For many residents, this marked the first time they’ve seen a renovation like this since moving to the community, making it even more meaningful.
Perfect Timing for Tournament Season
The newly renovated courts are already being put to the test as tournament season kicks into high gear.
The first tournament held on the newly renovated courts was Desert Challenge. One of the larger tournaments of the year and a popular event that draws players from surrounding communities.
“This is one of the larger tournaments and a great one to show off to all the players who come to play from surrounding areas,” Collins said.
The winner, determined by total points, earns a plaque for the year.
“It’s more bragging rights than anything else,” Tootie joked. “And of course, we make cake and have that for dessert.”
Looking ahead to February, The Lakes at Hemet West will host the National CSA Hall of Fame Singles Tournament, a four-day event that typically draws around 60 entries. Hosting the event is no small task.
“It’s a lot of work,” Tootie said, explaining that just last week she sent out entry forms and secured a $350 sponsorship grant from the local bank to help fund prize money.
Later this spring, the community will host the Soboba Classic Tournament during the last weekend of March, with expectations of even higher attendance.
With 10 shuffleboard courts, The Lakes at Hemet West boast more courts than any other community in the valley.
“Other places might have eight boards,” Tootie shared, “but we have the best facility in my books.”
The renovation enhanced not only the look of the space, but also the quality of play, something seasoned competitors immediately notice.
“The play is even better now,” she added. “The finishes and improvements are fantastic.”
Tootie has lived at The Lakes at Hemet West for 15 years and has been playing shuffleboard in Hemet just as long. She was first introduced to the game through friends whose parents lived in the area. After her husband passed away, she moved to Hemet and was encouraged to play — a decision that would shape the next chapter of her life.
Shuffleboard quickly became more than a game.
“It was a great way to cope, meet friends, and spend my time,” she shared. “I love the friendships and meeting all different kinds of people.”
One of the things she loves most is how inclusive the sport is.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re handicapped or on oxygen, you can still play. It’s not restricted like pickleball. You stand at the end with a cue stick, shoot, try to score, and knock the other player’s disc out. It’s fun.”
Tootie practices about 10 hours a week, with Monday practice sessions lasting 2.5 hours, league play on Wednesdays, and additional practice throughout the week.
Her dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. She earned a district recognition pin in 2024, awarded when someone is nominated for doing positive things in their community,
Shuffleboard Is in Hemet’s Blood
With its long history, multiple tournaments, and national recognition, shuffleboard truly runs through Hemet’s veins, and The Lakes at Hemet West is proud to be part of that legacy.
As the freshly renovated courts continue to welcome tournament play, the excitement is palpable. The community expects around 80 players and nearly 100 total attendees during major events, all eager to experience the improved courts firsthand.
“We love our place,” Tootie said simply. “And we play as often as we can.”