World’s First Dedicated Pickleball Stadium: The world’s first pickleball stadium, ‘The Fort,’ has opened in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Spanning nine acres, it features 43 courts, including 14 weatherproof ones. The venue, which includes dining and entertainment options, aims to foster a vibrant pickleball community and has already hosted significant events.
A Comprehensive Facility
Located just north of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, ‘The Fort’ boasts a lakeside entertainment complex, a 4,000 sq ft event center, luxury suites, golf simulators, and a game yard with live music. With seating for over 2,000 fans, it represents the growing popularity of pickleball in the United States.
Building a Pickleball Community
Co-founded by Brad Tuckman and Rich Campillo, the stadium aims to create a pickleball community.
“We want the Fort to truly be for the entire pickleball community. 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.” – (Tuckman)
Since opening, the venue has sold around 500 memberships, ranging from $69 to $139 monthly. Basic memberships include five open play sessions and league access. Higher-tier memberships offer guest passes, longer reservation windows, and discounts on private court fees. Memberships will be capped at 2,000 members.
Commitment to Inclusivity
For non-members, booking slots for up to six players costs between $15 and $25. Tuckman emphasized the venue’s commitment to community events, tournaments, and free clinics to promote inclusivity in pickleball. Fort Lauderdale’s Mayor Dean Trantalis highlighted the collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“This collaboration showcases the incredible possibilities that arise when the public and private sectors work together for the benefit of our community. Creating more than 100 jobs and making a significant economic impact on our city aligns perfectly with Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to be a world-class live-work-play city.” – (Tuckman)
The opening of ‘The Fort’ marks a significant milestone for pickleball, offering a dedicated space for players and enthusiasts. Its blend of sports, entertainment, and community engagement positions it as a central hub for the rapidly growing sport in Florida.
News in Brief: World’s First Dedicated Pickleball Stadium
Florida’s ‘The Fort’ opens as the world’s first pickleball stadium, featuring 43 courts and a lakeside complex. Co-founders aim to build a pickleball community, promoting inclusivity through events and memberships while enhancing the local economy and job market.
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