Pickleball’s Popularity Soars in Sheridan County: Pickleball continues to expand in Sheridan County, with growing leagues, new courts, and dedicated facilities like Zero-Zero-Two Pickleball catering to the sport’s rising demand. Once a niche activity, pickleball has now become a major part of the local sports scene, attracting players of all ages and skill levels.
From YMCA Introduction to Pickleball Enthusiast
Four years ago, Mike Wicht first tried pickleball at the Sheridan County YMCA, invited by his mother and her friends.
“I ended up getting it handed to me — getting my butt kicked by a bunch of older ladies.” – (Wicht)
Determined to improve, he immersed himself in the sport, which led him to open Zero-Zero-Two Pickleball, an indoor facility dedicated to the game.
Fastest-Growing Sport Takes Hold in Sheridan
Dubbed the fastest-growing sport in America by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), pickleball has expanded rapidly in Sheridan. The area now boasts multiple playing locations, including:
- Sheridan County YMCA, which offers 80 hours of scheduled pickleball each week.
- Thorne-Rider Park, with outdoor courts managed by the Sheridan Rec District.
- Scotty’s Skate Castle, which has hosted indoor pickleball games.
- Zero-Zero-Two Pickleball Sheridan’s first dedicated indoor pickleball facility.
Sheridan County YMCA Executive Director Liz Cassiday noted that pickleball has been a community favorite long before its national rise in popularity.
“I’ve been here for 17 years, and it has been super popular this whole time.” – (Cassiday)
Zero-Zero-Two Pickleball: A New Home for the Sport
To create a pickleball-focused space, Wicht transformed a two-acre welding building at Sheridan Commercial Park into Zero-Zero-Two Pickleball. Opened in November, the facility features:
- Two courts with professional-grade rubber Sport Court flooring.
- Permanent nets and high-quality lighting.
- A pro shop selling beginner and high-end paddles.
- Community spaces for players to connect.
Wicht offers membership options and drop-in rates, but acknowledges the challenge of building a steady subscriber base.
“The toughest part is… in order for a facility like this to survive, you have to have memberships. You have to have a steady monthly revenue stream.” – (Wicht)
Community Growth and Future Plans
To attract more players, Zero-Zero-Two is launching new programs, including:
- Women’s Night events.
- Men’s drop-in sessions on Thursday nights.
- Pick-up games every morning at 7 a.m.
- Collaborations with schools, businesses, and organizations to introduce pickleball to new audiences.
Wicht anticipates summer months will bring challenges as players take advantage of free outdoor pickleball courts at Thorne-Rider Park and other locations. However, strong paddle and equipment sales at his pro shop indicate long-term growth potential.
“I’m still optimistic.” – (Wicht)
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Popularity Soars in Sheridan County
Sheridan County’s pickleball scene is thriving, with dedicated facilities like Zero-Zero-Two Pickleball joining established venues at the YMCA and Thorne-Rider Park. The sport’s popularity continues to rise, attracting players of all ages. New programs, leagues, and facilities aim to meet growing demand in the community.
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