The Mercer Island Country Club (MICC) has taken a major step in growing pickleball on the island with the opening of its brand-new pickleball and tennis bubble. The club celebrated this milestone on February 28, 2025, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local leaders, community members, and MICC supporters.
With pickleball rapidly gaining popularity, the new air-inflated dome will allow players to enjoy the game year-round, regardless of the weather.
City Leaders and MICC Representatives Commemorate the Opening
Mercer Island Mayor Salim Nice led the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, joined by Deputy Mayor Dave Rosenbaum and councilmembers Lisa Anderl and Jake Jacobson, who worked closely with the club to make the project a reality.
MICC Board President Susie Vannatter reflected on the club’s long-standing dream of building a covered facility for racket sports.
“For literally decades, people have been talking about the idea of putting up a bubble here at the club. Now, standing inside it today, it’s truly amazing to see this dream become a reality.” – (Vannatter)
A Game-Changer for Pickleball on Mercer Island
The new seasonal dome covers four of the club’s eight outdoor courts, providing a weather-proof environment for players who previously had to rely on limited indoor options or play outside in unpredictable conditions.
Former MICC board president Dan Nordale, a key figure in bringing the project to life, highlighted the impact on the growing community.
“The dome over the outdoor tennis courts will expand access to tennis and pickleball by 60% during our rainy season, a significant step toward further elevating our juniors tennis program that is already the best in the Pacific Northwest.” – (Nordale)
Pickleball’s popularity has surged in recent years, and the new facility ensures that players of all ages and skill levels have a consistent place to practice, play matches, and participate in training programs.
State-of-the-Art Facility Built for Year-Round Play
The air-inflated dome stands 35 feet high at its peak and is engineered to withstand winds up to 100 mph, ensuring a safe and stable environment for players. An advanced air-handling system keeps the temperature comfortable and maintains the dome’s structural integrity.
The project also incorporated environmental sustainability, with 30 new trees planted around the club to integrate the dome into the natural landscape.
“We’ve taken every precaution to ensure that this dome is both safe and environmentally conscious. We’ve planted 30 new trees across the MICC and adjacent properties to replace unhealthy ones, further integrating the structure into the natural landscape.” – (Nordale)
Celebrating the Future of Pickleball on Mercer Island
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees celebrated with a champagne and cider toast, marking the beginning of a new era for the club’s community. MICC General Manager Dorrinda Pierce emphasized how the new facility will benefit local players.
“The tennis bubble is a game-changer. It not only gives us the chance to play year-round, regardless of the weather, it also brings our Islander community closer together. It will benefit everyone for years to come.” – (Pierce)
As the event concluded, Nordale extended an open invitation to the community.
“Thanks for coming — let’s play tennis and pickleball!” – (Nordale)
With the completion of this state-of-the-art facility, Mercer Island is set to become a premier destination for enthusiasts, ensuring that players can stay active, improve their skills, and connect with the community—rain or shine.
News in Brief: Mercer Island Country Club
The Mercer Island Country Club (MICC) officially opened its new pickleball and tennis bubble with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 28, 2025. The air-inflated structure, covering four outdoor courts, expands pickleball access by 60% during the rainy season.
The event featured Mayor Salim Nice, MICC board members, and community leaders. The dome ensures that Mercer Island residents can enjoy year-round pickleball in a weather-protected environment.
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