A new indoor sports facility called Rockaway Beach Pickleball & Golf will open on Saturday, June 28, at 97-25 Beach Channel Drive in Rockaway Beach. The center offers five indoor pickleball courts, two golf simulator rooms, and a full bar with food. The idea came from John Walsh and Justine Moriarty, who saw the need for indoor options for pickleball lovers in the area.
The center is meant to provide year-round fun for players of all ages, especially during bad weather.
A New Spot for Pickleball and Golf Fans
Rockaway Beach Pickleball & Golf is the work of John Walsh, Justine Moriarty, Mike Tellone, and Dan Greaves. They started planning after seeing few indoor pickleball facilities nearby.
John Walsh said, “It’s a great game and it’s all about the community. You make a ton of new friends playing pickleball.”
Justine Moriarty added, “The learning curve is so easy and it’s very social. It’s for all ages and it makes you feel young again. It can get a little competitive but you’re physically close and meet a lot of friendly people. It’s very addicting.”
After finding the empty warehouse on Beach 97th Street, they signed the lease in February and began building. Walsh, who owns a construction company, did much of the work himself.
Features and Membership Perks
Besides pickleball courts, the facility has two golf simulators, large TVs, and a kitchen for snacks. Art by Doug Meyers decorates the space and is for sale, with 10% of art sales going to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Memberships offer perks like early court reservations, discounts, and private lockers. The first 100 members will get discounted rates. First responders also get 10% off memberships and a free drink after games.
Ready to Welcome the Community
John Walsh shared, “It feels great. My wife and I had a similar vision for this place from day one, and it’s coming true right now.”
Justine Moriarty said, “It’s exciting, overwhelming. I hope everyone likes it. This area needs something new, and I hope it’s a success.”
John Walsh added, “It’s a fun vibe, good music, fun people and when you experience it, you’re gonna feel like, ‘wow, this place is awesome!’”
Impact and What Comes Next
The new center aims to build a local pickleball and golf community. With indoor courts, people can play year-round. Programs for adults and kids will help grow the sport in Rockaway Beach.
RB Pickleball & Golf will be open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday to Friday and from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends.
News in Brief: Rockaway Beach Pickleball & Golf
Rockaway Beach Pickleball & Golf opens June 28 in Rockaway Beach with five indoor pickleball courts, two golf simulators, a bar, and food. Founders John Walsh and Justine Moriarty hope it becomes a community hub. Memberships, lessons, and kids’ programs will also be offered.
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