Albuquerque Metro Indoor Pickleball Boom:Indoor pickleball is growing fast in the Albuquerque metro as new courts and facilities open for players of all levels. On Tuesday, Defined Pickleball launched the area’s first indoor pickleball facility in Rio Rancho, giving local players access to 18 courts, lessons, and a friendly place to play.
A New Indoor Home for Pickleball
Defined Pickleball is part of Defined Fitness and offers much more than courts. It features a café, a pro shop, and plans for clinics and tournaments.
Leigh Ann Blanchard, co-owner of Defined Pickleball, explained why these courts stand out. “We have the cushion X system, which is really good for the body and the joints. It’s easier to play, longer longevity,” (Leigh Ann Blanchard).
She added that the venue is designed to be a gathering place.
“We also have our clinics, our tournaments. We’re going to be offering lessons from our pros, but it’s going to be a social event, so everyone will be able to make new friends, meet new players, make new groups to play.”(Leigh Ann Blanchard)
More Places to Play
On Albuquerque’s East Side, Calvin Shrader is converting an old furniture warehouse into a new space called Swing-N-Pickle. The facility will include indoor pickleball courts, golf simulators, and batting cages.
“Everything you’re gonna do in here has some sort of a swing, either a golf, a bat or a pickleball,” (Calvin Shrader).
Work is still underway, but Swing-N-Pickle is set to open in August. Shrader hopes it will be a popular place for families.
“It’s gonna be addicting, because it’s gonna be so much to do. You know, we want them to stay and, of course, we’ll take competitors over here, but we’re definitely more for family,” (Calvin Shrader).
The Picklr Expands to Albuquerque
The Picklr, which is the world’s largest indoor pickleball chain, is also coming to town. The company plans to open a 12-court indoor location inside the old Conn’s furniture store near Eubank and Interstate 40.
Marty Garcia, the Chief Operating Officer of Premiere Pickleball, described what players can expect.
“We’re very excited to bring a new franchise to Albuquerque and 12 indoor pickleball courts,” (Marty Garcia).
The Picklr will serve both casual players and professionals.
“We will absolutely have a competitive environment. It is full professional style courts that will attract everyone from a social player to a very high level pro player,” (Marty Garcia).
The Picklr expects to open in November.
Future Growth and Expansion
Developers are already planning more locations in Santa Fe, Las Cruces, and Albuquerque’s West Side. Marty Garcia explained why the company is eager to grow.
“It is the fastest growing sports in America, and we believe that it will continue to grow. “We want to be part of the growth of the pickleball community.”(Marty Garcia)
As more courts and clubs appear, the Albuquerque area is set to become a major hub for the sport.
News in Brief: Albuquerque Metro Indoor Pickleball Boom
New indoor pickleball courts are opening in Albuquerque. Defined Pickleball in Rio Rancho just opened with 18 courts. Swing-N-Pickle and The Picklr will follow soon with more courts and family fun. Local leaders believe these facilities will boost pickleball’s popularity across the region.
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