Addressing the Demand
Despite the rapid growth of pickleball courts and clubs from Texas to New York City, Houston lags in both player skill level and facility availability, according to Baptise. “We are very confident that we will be able to bring in Houston as the top destination for pickleball, elevate everybody’s skills, and become one of the meccas of pickleball,” he stated. The decision to expand to The Woodlands was influenced by its athletic reputation and customer base. Local momentum for pickleball has been growing, evidenced by new purpose-built courts at Falconwing Park and the indoor facility ERA Pickleball. Yet, enthusiasts claim the supply of courts still falls short of demand.
From Passion to Business
Baptise’s journey into pickleball began after moving to the United States. A former competitive soccer and volleyball player, he discovered pickleball at his local gym and quickly became captivated by the sport. “I knew nobody in the United States, so it was a way for me to make friends, and second, I was able to be competitive,” Baptise recalled. His background in interior design and professional pickleball will be evident in the new facility’s design. With black walls to improve ball visibility and high fences to prevent chasing balls, Elite Pickleball’s 15-court facility will prioritize training over social elements but will include a smoothie bar with plans to offer snacks and alcoholic drinks post-game.
Future Developments
The Woodlands facility is part of a larger entertainment and sports complex developed by Katy-based Sports Developers. The Dudley Sports Plaza will host Elite Pickleball and another tenant to be announced soon. “The Woodlands was definitely at the top of our list. It’s a very family-oriented, community-oriented, values-driven area, and we’re super excited to contribute to the community,” said Ashish Wadhwani of Sports Developers.
Aiming News Heights
Elite Pickleball is also expanding its Heights location at 610 W. 6th Street from eight to 24 courts, with completion expected by the end of August. Additionally, a new Clear Lake facility at 2323 Clear Lake City Blvd. will feature 14 courts and is anticipated to open by year-end. The brand aims to break ground on the FM 1488 and Kuykendahl Road location in August or September, with a planned opening by fall 2025.
News in Brief: Elite Pickleball in Woodlands
Elite Pickleball, the only professional-owned pickleball club in Houston, is expanding from the Heights to The Woodlands. The 40,000-square-foot facility on FM 1488 will be one of ten new clubs in Greater Houston. Co-owner Shellton Jean Baptise aims to make Houston a top pickleball destination. The new facility will feature 15 courts, black walls for better visibility, and a smoothie bar. Baptise, a former competitive athlete, turned his passion for pickleball into this growing business. The Woodlands facility is part of the Dudley Sports Plaza, developed by Katy-based Sports Developers. Elite Pickleball is also expanding its Heights location and opening a new facility in Clear Lake by year-end.
Also Read: USAP and Camp Catanese Organize Pickleball Clinic for Underprivileged students
