Wilson’s Pickleball Paradise: The City of Wilson Pickleball Facility will officially open with a Grand Opening Tournament on Friday, April 11. The three-day doubles tournament will feature more than 180 players from across North Carolina. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. to begin the celebration.
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Tournament Marks Official Debut
While the 26-court facility opened in December, the upcoming tournament marks its official launch. Players will compete in four skill levels across three age groups. The event is co-sponsored by the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Mount Olive Pickles.
Two championship courts will be used for the first time, joining 24 others. Eight courts are covered by a large metal roof to help with weekend rain. Jordan Phillips, the Wilson Parks and Recreation athletics supervisor overseeing pickleball, said players are excited to compete.
Built for Wilson and Beyond
The courts are located at the J. Burt Gillette Athletic Complex. They were built for Wilson residents but are also meant to attract events that bring money into the city.
The Grand Opening Tournament is just the beginning. Wilson will host the Down East Senior Games and the Wilson County Pickleball Open later this year.
The biggest event so far is set for October. The North Carolina Senior Games will bring 1,200 players to Wilson for five days. Phillips said the games chose Wilson over Cary because of its permanent courts.
More Tournaments and Big Goals Ahead
Phillips has plans for even bigger tournaments in the future. He has spoken with the Professional Pickleball Association to bring a tour stop to Wilson in 2026. He has also studied how Cary runs large events to prepare Wilson for that level.
Interest in the new facility is already high. Phillips said people from Raleigh, Wake Forest, Fayetteville, and Greenville have visited.
What’s Next for Wilson’s Pickleball Scene
With tournaments scheduled, local and visiting players enjoying the courts, and plans for national events underway, Wilson is positioning itself as a top pickleball destination. The Grand Opening marks a new chapter for recreation in the city.
News in Brief: Wilson’s Pickleball Paradise
Wilson’s 26-court Pickleball Facility will host its Grand Opening Tournament April 11–13, featuring 180 players from across North Carolina. A ribbon-cutting kicks off the event Friday at 6 p.m. The tournament debuts two championship courts and signals Wilson’s growing role as a hub for major pickleball events.
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