Pickleball Boom in Alabama Communities: Pickleball is rapidly growing across Alabama, attracting players, tournaments, and tourism. Cities such as Dothan, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, Huntsville, Foley, and Orange Beach are building public courts, while private businesses offer indoor facilities and lessons. The sport now includes more than 1,072 public and private courts in 242 locations statewide.
Economic Impact and Community Growth
Dothan started a $6.4 million covered pickleball complex in May, expecting a $2 million annual economic impact. Montgomery is investing $920,000 in 12 courts. Tuscaloosa is adding eight courts with a parking lot for $1.4 million. Huntsville plans 25 more public courts, while the University of Alabama is adding 10 courts for $1.6 million. Birmingham has roughly 70 courts, including the private 10-court Picklr in Vestavia Hills, owned by former football player Drew Brees.
Jim Young, president of the 700-member Opelika Pickleball Club, directs one of the state’s most popular pickleball locations. He said,
“It is in our charter and bylaws to give all our proceeds back to the city because the city invested over $3 million in these facilities.”
Opelika tournaments have contributed hundreds of thousands to the local economy, including $800,000 in 2022 and $665,000 in 2024.
Local Businesses and Opportunities
Chris Welch and Greg Boyett, former tennis players, founded C&G Pickleball Academy in Huntsville five years ago. Welch said,
“Everybody has kind of got the fever for it. It’s just easy to play. There’s a hunger for this sport like nothing I’ve ever seen before. I call it the pickleball obsession.”
Alabama construction companies are also building private courts. Procourt Construction recently completed a two-court, lighted facility for $80,000. Private lessons, tournaments, and new courts attract retirees, tourists, and players of all ages. Orange Beach is planning a $1.5 million project with 14 free, lighted courts, while Prattville and Mobile are expanding facilities to meet growing demand.
Growing Popularity and Future Plans
Pickleball appeals to youth and seniors alike. Nicole Ard, Parks and Recreation Director in Orange Beach, said,
“It’s the fastest-growing sport in the nation right now from youth to seniors. All communities, if they don’t have a pickleball court, they need to.”
Opelika provides free balls and beginner lessons, directing traveling players to city RV parks to boost local tourism.
The sport’s rapid expansion in Alabama shows its economic potential and community appeal. Cities are building courts, hosting tournaments, and encouraging residents to participate, ensuring pickleball will remain a key driver for recreation and local business growth.
News in Brief: Pickleball Boom in Alabama Communities
Pickleball is expanding quickly across Alabama, with more than 1,000 public and private courts in 242 locations. Cities like Dothan, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, and Orange Beach are building facilities, while private academies and lessons grow the sport. Local clubs, like Opelika Pickleball Club, contribute financially to their communities and attract tourism.
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