Friendly Pickle Pickleball Court Opening: A new indoor pickleball complex has opened in Kalamazoo County. The Friendly Pickle, located at 5675 West D Avenue in Alamo Township, began welcoming players on July 14, 2025. In just two weeks, over 450 people have visited. The grand opening celebration will take place on August 15 with food, music, and games. A free open house will also be held on August 6 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
A New Space for Pickleball Fans
The Friendly Pickle is a large indoor facility built to support the growing interest in pickleball. The 24,000-square-foot center includes eight championship-size courts. Each court measures 65 feet by 34 feet. A 9-foot-wide walkway runs behind the courts to give players and visitors space to watch the games.
Owners Ben Ipema and Robin Ipema said four more courts and a covered outdoor area will be built outside soon.
Activities for All Ages and Levels
The new venue is more than just a place to play. It will host leagues, youth programs, tournaments, coaching sessions, and even wheelchair pickleball. Companies can also use the space for special events.
Kristy Visser, the general manager of The Friendly Pickle, shared her excitement about the response so far.
“We’re so thankful for the community that has embraced us,”. “It’s just been awesome getting to know so many people.”(Kristy Visser)
Membership and Daily Play Options
Players can join as members or drop in anytime. The facility offers open play three times each weekday—from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m., 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., and 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. On weekends, open play is available from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m.
Each open play session costs $10 for non-members. Members get in free and enjoy extra benefits.
A Big Step for the Local Pickleball Community
The Friendly Pickle is one of the newest and largest indoor pickleball centers in the region. It offers a reliable place to play no matter the weather. The center is already becoming a meeting place for both new and experienced players. With big plans for more courts and events, The Friendly Pickle may soon become a major hub for pickleball in Michigan.
News in Brief: Friendly Pickle Pickleball Court Opening
The Friendly Pickle in Alamo Township opened July 14 and welcomed over 450 players in two weeks. The indoor pickleball complex will host its grand opening on August 15 and a free open house on August 6. The space includes eight courts, with more outdoor courts coming soon.
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