Pickleball Revolution in Philadelphia: The Philadelphia region is seeing a massive surge in pickleball facilities, with more than a dozen new centers planned to meet the growing demand for the sport. One standout is Court 16, which will open this spring in the South Kensington neighborhood, offering a dynamic environment for pickleball fans of all ages.
Court 16 to Open in South Kensington
Court 16, a 14,000-square-foot indoor pickleball facility, will bring four USTA-sanctioned courts, including a variety of court sizes, to Philadelphia. Located at 1400 N. Howard St., promises to offer a vibrant pickleball experience for adults, children, and families.
The boutique club was founded by Anthony Evrard, a former NCAA Division I athlete and nationally ranked junior tennis player.
“We’re thrilled to bring Court 16 to Fishtown, a neighborhood that embodies community and innovation.” – (Anthony Evrard)
Other Pickleball Facilities Coming to the Region
Court 16 is just one of many new pickleball facilities in the area. Pickleball Kingdom, a growing pickleball facility brand, plans to open new locations in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, following the successful launch of its New Jersey franchise in May 2024.
In Delaware County and northern Delaware, Glen Mills native Jim Cassady and his wife Mia are set to open 10 Dill Dinkers pickleball centers in the next six years. They will also operate two of these new centers.
Dill Dinkers is already set to open a new facility in Hatboro, Montgomery County, by January 2025. The center will feature 18 indoor pickleball courts and three championship-sized courts. Memberships are currently available.
In Newtown, the Newton Picklr will offer 11 courts in a 30,000-square-foot space, complete with a pro shop and locker rooms. The facility is another step in the growing trend of indoor and outdoor pickleball courts popping up across the Philadelphia area.
Rise of Pickleball in the U.S.
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. In 2024, the Association of Pickleball Professionals reported over 48 million players across the country.
Originally founded in 1965, the sport has evolved to include recreational and competitive play, with events like pickleball tournaments drawing large crowds and participation.
Pickleball coach and instructor Dierdre Morris has played a key role in raising awareness of the sport, particularly with her establishment of August 8 as National Pickleball Day.
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity
The expansion of pickleball facilities in the Philadelphia region reflects the sport’s growing popularity. As more indoor and outdoor pickleball courts open, the community will have access to better opportunities to learn, compete, and enjoy the sport.
Many of these new facilities will host local and regional pickleball events, from recreational matches to competitive pickleball tournaments. The opening of these centers also provides opportunities for more players, coaches, and teams to form, fostering a vibrant pickleball community in the area.
With more pickleball facilities planned, players of all skill levels will have access to better training, improved pickleball technique, and enhanced pickleball strategy. The rise of these facilities also means more pickleball events and competitions, further fueling the sport’s growth.
Future Impact of Pickleball Growth
The rapid expansion of pickleball courts and facilities in the region will likely result in an even larger surge in pickleball participation.
As more players take to the courts, the area will likely see an increase in local and regional pickleball tournaments, providing more opportunities for players to compete and grow the sport. Whether a experienced player or a beginner, the Philly region is quickly becoming a hub for pickleball.
News in Brief: Pickleball Revolution in Philadelphia
More than a dozen new pickleball facilities are opening in the Philadelphia area, including Court 16, Dill Dinkers, and Pickleball Kingdom locations. The growing popularity of pickleball is transforming the region, with new courts, events, and programs for players of all skill levels.
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