World’s First Pickleball Stadium opens in Fort Lauderdale. A new era for pickleball has arrived in Fort Lauderdale with the opening of The Fort, the world’s first pickleball stadium. This sprawling facility, located just north of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport within Snyder Park, features seating for nearly 2,000 spectators and more than 36 state-of-the-art pickleball courts. It marks a significant milestone in the sport’s meteoric rise in popularity.
A Destination for the Pickleball Community
The venue, co-founded by Brad Tuckman and Rich Campillo, is designed to be a hub for pickleball enthusiasts of all levels.
The Fort officially entered its soft opening phase earlier this month with the inaugural Humana APP Fort Lauderdale Open, attracting about 1,200 players and thousands of spectators. The event showcased the facility’s potential as a major venue for pickleball tournaments and high-profile events.
“We want the Fort to truly be for the entire pickleball community,” said Tuckman. “We want to be the best we can be from a membership perspective, but it’s about more than just membership. We are building a destination.”
Memberships and Public Access
The Fort has already sold nearly 500 memberships, which range in price from $69 to $139 per month. Members enjoy benefits such as open play sessions, league access, guest passes, longer reservation windows, and discounted private court fees. Memberships will be capped at 2,000, ensuring an exclusive experience while still maintaining availability for the broader community.
Despite its membership offerings, The Fort is not exclusively for members. Non-members can book pickleball courts for up to six players, with rates ranging from $15 per hour during off-peak hours (6 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to $25 per hour during peak hours (4 p.m. to midnight). In the future, rates for non-members will rise to as much as $45 per hour.
An Inclusive Venue for All
The venue is designed to cater to players of all levels. Visitors can enjoy not only the pickleball courts but also a fully stocked pro shop offering paddles, accessories, and unique pickleball-themed merchandise.
Even on a rainy day, the experience was top-notch, with 14 covered courts available for use. Non-covered courts are predominantly blue, with one vibrant pink court designated for breast cancer awareness.
Events, Clinics, and Community Engagement
Tuckman and Campillo emphasize their commitment to ensuring the venue is inclusive and accessible to the local community. The Fort will host a range of events, including pickleball tournaments, free clinics, and social gatherings.
Additionally, they plan to employ 24 teaching professionals and hire nearly 150 staff members as the venue expands its food and beverage services.
As part of its commitment to community involvement, the Fort is offering free play for both members and non-members on Friday, January 24, and Saturday, January 25, from 8 a.m. to midnight. Advance registration is required for those wishing to participate in this special free-play event.
A Vision for the Future
With The Fort now open, pickleball enthusiasts in the region have a state-of-the-art venue to call home. As the sport continues to grow, Tuckman and Campillo’s vision for the facility goes beyond just a place to play—it’s designed to be a thriving community hub, hosting pickleball tournaments, social events, and bringing together players of all levels.
News in Brief: World’s First Pickleball Stadium
The Fort, the world’s first pickleball stadium, has opened in Fort Lauderdale, featuring 36+ courts, seating for 2,000 spectators, and a fully stocked pro shop.
The venue is offering memberships and public access. The Fort hosts events, including tournaments, and free play for members and non-members.
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