US Open Pickleball Championships Expansion: The U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, having recently completed its largest event since 2016, is set to undergo significant transformations under its new ownership. Mike Dee, executive chairman of Pickleball4America, expressed enthusiasm about inheriting the esteemed tournament and working with Collier County to enhance participation and attendance. “We’re excited to, first of all, to inherit something that’s been so well established,” Dee remarked. “The founders have left a wonderful legacy for us, the pick of four new owners to work with Collier County on expanding those who participate, looking to expand those who attend the event.”
Record-Breaking Attendance and Future Upgrades
The 2024 U.S. Open saw around 50,000 fans over its seven-day span and featured over 3,400 athletes, including both amateur and professional players. “This year for the 2024 U.S. Open, we drew about 50,000 fans over the seven days of the event that included over 3400 athletes who participated,” Dee detailed. Plans for the future include significant upgrades to the Future East Naples Community Park upgrades, where the event is held. Future enhancements involve constructing an entrance gate, doubling the number of shaded courts, and adding waterproof shades to improve player comfort in the hot Naples climate.
Community Impact and Enhancements
Barbara Deschenes, a player and coach at the U.S. Open, highlighted the rising interest in pickleball and the anticipated benefits of the new ownership. “Pickleball is the new rage,” Deschenes noted. “Everybody wants to learn how to play. So, we have a tremendous number of beginners that come to the park and just want to learn the game.” She believes that the upcoming upgrades will enhance player experience and boost community involvement. Future plans include potentially relocating the community center, adding 12 covered championship courts, installing cooling misters, and leasing private property for additional parking.
Economic and Educational Prospects
The economic impact of last year’s event exceeded $12 million, with expectations of further growth due to this year’s record-setting numbers. Dee also announced plans for a year-round U.S. Open pickleball academy, collaborating with county schools and the parks & recreation division to lease six courts starting in September. “Last year’s economic impact for the 2023 event was over $12 million. We anticipate, given the numbers and the records that were set this year, that that number will increase,” Dee stated.
News in Brief: US Open Pickleball Championships Expansion
The US Open Pickleball Championships, recently the largest since 2016, is set for major expansion under its new ownership by Pickleball4America. Mike Dee, executive chairman, highlighted plans to boost participation and community involvement. The 2024 event attracted 50,000 fans and 3,400 athletes. Future East Naples Community Park upgrades include an entrance gate, shaded courts, waterproof shades, and potential relocation of the community center. Economic impact exceeded $12 million, with projections for growth. Additionally, a year-round pickleball academy will be established, collaborating with local schools and parks to enhance the sport’s presence and accessibility.
Also Read: PPA’s Select Medical Orange County Cup 2024 Hits California
