Pickleball’s New Indoor Oasis: Despite the dreary weather in Wind Gap, the energy inside Horizon Sports Pickleball was thrilling. Just 30 minutes after the doors opened, players were already hitting the courts in the new 50,000-square-foot indoor facility — a dream come true for pickleball fans.
Owner Dominic Sumpolec, a longtime tennis and pickleball advocate, says the goal is simple: create a space where everyone — from first-timers to seasoned picklers — can enjoy the game, rain or shine.
“There’s a lot of picklers out there that want places to play indoors and outdoors. But it’s got to be perfect conditions to play outdoors, and this place, we have 13 indoor courts, three professional courts, 50,000 square feet, and a controlled environment.” – (Dominic Sumpolec)
A Grand Opening With a Big Splash
To celebrate Horizon Sports Pickleball’s grand opening, Sumpolec opened the pickleball courts to the public for free from Thursday through Saturday. Spots filled fast, with over 80 players packing the courts during Friday’s evening session alone.
“Last night, we were sold out. There were 80-some people here, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tonight is sold out as well.” – (Dominic Sumpolec)
The facility features 13 indoor courts, including three professional-level courts with the same cushioned surface used at the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships — making it not only expansive but top-tier in quality. “It’s cushiony and way better on the body,” Sumpolec said.
More Than a Fad — A Growing Movement
Sumpolec is confident pickleball’s growth is just getting started.
“I think it’s going to be a college sport. I think it’s going to be an Olympic sport. I truly do.” – (Dominic Sumpolec)
His optimism is backed by numbers. According to a recent Forbes article, the pickleball world needs 25,000 new pickleball courts this year to meet demand. Sumpolec is ready to help meet that need — he plans to launch 10 more indoor facilities nationwide over the next five years, with Scranton already in his sights.
“So I think pickleball is here to stay, and I think the pickleball craze is only going to boom. Forbes came out with this article two months ago saying that the pickleball world needs 25,000 new courts this year to fulfill all the pickleball players.” – (Dominic Sumpolec)
Memberships, Lessons, and Easy Access
Whether a casual player or looking to level up your game, Horizon has options:
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Individual Membership: $160/year – includes discounted court rentals at $15/hour
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Senior Membership: $120/year
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Family Membership: $300/year
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Non-Members Welcome: Can still reserve courts online, up to five days in advance
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Lessons Available: Nine instructors available for all skill levels
Members enjoy perks like free demo gear from Diadem, Horizon’s equipment sponsor. Players can also rent paddles and balls on-site.
Community First
What sets Horizon apart isn’t just the facility — it’s the atmosphere.
“That’s the vibe we’re going for, a very good vibe here. Everybody’s here playing pickleball, and they love it.” – (Dominic Sumpolec)
Pickleballers like Jeff Hull and Gerry Chiusano praised the layout, social atmosphere, and accessibility. Hull said he plans to play three times a week, while Chiusano emphasized how valuable the indoor pickleball courts will be during bad weather or when public parks are overcrowded.
“It’ll be a great resource when it’s raining out or too hot, or when the public courts are too crowded.” – (Chiusano)
“He walked over there, within five minutes, they were teaching them how to play the game of pickleball. And now that guy’s sold — he just made 15 new friends.” – (Dominic Sumpolec)
News in Brief: Pickleball’s New Indoor Facility
Horizon Sports Pickleball opened in Wind Gap with a bang, offering free sessions and drawing dozens of players to its 50,000-square-foot indoor facility. With 13 courts and Olympic ambitions, the new hotspot highlights the rapid growth of the sport and a community-first approach.
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