Riverhead’s Newest Pickleball Facility: A new pickleball facility has opened in Riverhead, offering players of all levels a unique place to play, dine, and socialize. Box Pickleball Container Bar and Kitchen celebrated its grand opening on February 26 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its location on Old Country Road.
Innovative Design and Top-Tier Facilities
The facility, directed by Scott Green of Hampton Bays, features nine self-leveled acrylic courts with Selkirk tournament nets, a full-service kitchen and bar, and a pro shop stocked with the latest gear. What sets it apart is its design—constructed using repurposed storage containers.
“It’s called Box Pickleball because I am sitting here talking to you right now inside of a storage container,” Green told Dan’s Papers.
“They’re all storage containers that were moved into the building. My office is a storage container. There’s one above me. I’m next to the pro shop. You come in, it’s a storage container that has panels that lift up so you can check in. The bar is cut out from the storage container in the back.” – (Green)
Social Side of Pickleball
Green believes that integrating a restaurant and bar into the facility is key to attracting casual players. Programs like “Lunch and Learn” encourage new participants to engage with the sport.
“Come for an hour clinic with our pros on Wednesday afternoon at noon, stay for lunch. Price included, $35. You can’t beat that, and they come in and have a good time.” – (Green)
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity
Green attributes pickleball’s rapid growth to its accessibility and social appeal, particularly during the pandemic.
“COVID hit, but you could still play pickleball because you’re six feet apart.” – (Green)
Initially popular among older adults looking to stay active, the sport has since gained traction with younger players.
“The biggest demographic driving pickleball right now is the 18 to 34 age range.” – (Green)
Expanding the Sport Locally
Box Pickleball is working with local schools and youth programs to introduce the game to more players. Green hopes it could even become a varsity sport in the future. For now, the goal is simple—encouraging people to pick up a paddle and have fun.
“If they’re a serious competitor, take a couple of lessons, learn how to play the game the right way, but you’re going to have fun, pretty much, right from the get-go.” – (Green)
News in Brief: Riverhead’s Newest Pickleball Facility
Box Pickleball Container Bar and Kitchen has officially opened in Riverhead, offering nine high-quality pickleball courts, a full-service bar and kitchen, and a pro shop. The facility, made from repurposed storage containers, aims to attract serious and casual players. Programs like “Lunch and Learn” make it easy for beginners to get started.
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