Carmel’s New Pickleball Club: In a significant development for the pickleball community, Carmel has welcomed its very own elite pickleball country club. Pickle on Penn, a state-of-the-art facility, boasts a comprehensive range of amenities including a pro shop, eight indoor courts, luxurious locker rooms, and an on-staff professional. The 23,500-square-foot complex, located at 11575 N. Pennsylvania St., also features a 90-seat upscale restaurant and bar, marking a shift from casual, outdoor play to a more refined experience.
Culinary Excellence and Social Hub
Opening its doors last month, Pickle on Penn aims to be more than just a pickleball destination. The club’s culinary venture, The Kitchen, will commence operations in September, under the guidance of executive chef Carlesa Smith. Smith, known for her work at Harry & Izzy’s and St. Elmo Steak House, brings a high level of culinary expertise to the club. The restaurant, situated on the second level, offers stunning views of the courts and a diverse menu ranging from handhelds and salads to upscale entrees such as New York strip and filet mignon. The appetizer menu includes The Paddle, a charcuterie board, and the Drop Shot Dip, a cheesy spinach and artichoke dip.
Innovative Food and Drink Options
The bar at Pickle on Penn features a creative drink menu with pickleball-themed cocktails. Highlights include the Dink Shot Buck, a mix of Makers Mark 46, lemon juice, simple syrup, and muddled strawberries; the Pickle Mary, a Bloody Mary with Tito’s vodka, Zing Zang mix, and a pickle skewer; and the Passing Shot Paloma, which combines Casamigos Blanco tequila with sparkling grapefruit and lime juice.
The Fast-Growing Sport of Pickleball
Owned by local entrepreneurs Steve and Kelly Bodner, Pickle on Penn (or POP) is designed to be a vibrant and inspiring environment for its members. The club’s general manager and director of pickleball, Ryan Atkinson, brings extensive experience from Broadmoor Country Club and the Indianapolis Racquet Club. “I couldn’t be more excited about joining the amazing POP team at the ground level,” Atkinson remarked. “Pickleball has changed my life, not to mention this is the fastest-growing sport in the United States.”
For the past three years, pickleball has been recognized as America’s fastest-growing sport by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, experiencing a remarkable 223.5% growth since 2020, with a 51.8% increase in 2023 alone. As of now, 13.6 million people are engaged in the sport, underscoring its expanding popularity.
News in Brief: Carmel’s New Pickleball Club
Pickle on Penn, a premier pickleball country club, has opened in Carmel, offering a blend of top-tier sports facilities and upscale dining. Located at 11575 N. Pennsylvania St., the 23,500-square-foot venue features eight indoor courts, a pro shop, and luxurious amenities. The Kitchen, led by executive chef Carlesa Smith, will offer a diverse menu from September. The club also boasts a creative drink menu with pickleball-themed cocktails. With pickleball’s explosive growth—223.5% since 2020—Pickle on Penn is positioned as a significant player in the sport’s expansion.
