Tucson’s New Pickleball Paradise: For those who consider pickleball their game of choice, a new venue has arrived in Tucson that promises to redefine the experience. At Ace Pickleball Club, located at 4881 N. Stone Road, players of all skill levels are welcomed to explore their passion across 13 cushioned pickleball courts, specifically designed to accommodate everyone—even those who have never held a paddle before.
Thomas Gist, one of the club’s operating partners, emphasized the inclusive philosophy behind Ace Pickleball Club.
“We’re a club for players of all skill levels. The beginners, the individuals without paddles in their hands right now, are the best members that we can have because they come to the club. They experience what we are offering for the first time. No one has to apologize for them not being included in our local parks because it’s higher-level players or four friends who get together every day. We are here to build that community and make everyone feel welcome.” – (Thomas Gist)
A Promising Start
Having opened its doors in October, Ace Pickleball Club is just the beginning for Thomas Gist and his partners, who aim to launch a total of 10 locations within the next year. Initial feedback has been promising, though he acknowledges the impact of seasonal weather on attendance.
“You can’t predict this stuff. Weather plays a key factor in this. If you’re opening when it’s 110 degrees out or during monsoon season, it’s obvious, but we’re coming into one of the most beautiful times of the year in Tucson, and we’re still seeing good response.” – (Thomas Gist)
Spanning an impressive 40,000 square feet, the pickleball club features locker rooms, a stretch area, and an innovative design that includes three dedicated warm-up courts.
“Members can come in, they can warm up and then hop right onto the courts.” – (Thomas Gist)
Unique Court Features
The pickleball courts at Ace Pickleball Club are constructed with eight layers, including a cushioned layer to enhance comfort during play.
“It’s an outdoor court that’s played indoors. It’s still a pickleball surface, but it’s cushioned so it’s more forgiving.” – (Thomas Gist)
The concept of a pickleball club intrigued Thomas Gist’s partners, who recognized the sport’s rapid growth globally. After exploring various business opportunities, they chose to invest in pickleball due to its lower overhead costs. They were keen to harness Thomas Gist’s passion for the game, leading to the franchise’s development over a 10-month period.
“With that one, I will basically do the same thing. Build the club from the ground up, put my heart and soul into it like I did this one, and then hopefully do that eight other times in eight other markets on the West Coast and throughout Arizona.” – (Thomas Gist)
Membership and Community Engagement
Ace Pickleball Club offers an all-inclusive membership for $99 a month. Quarterly, four vendors provide paddles for members to test out, with a 20% discount available on any paddle they decide to purchase.
Twice a month, the club hosts glow nights—an event reminiscent of cyber bowling. Additionally, players can access video analyses of their games, while all necessary equipment, including balls, is provided on-site. An event space is also available for special gatherings.
To support newcomers, beginner pickleball lessons are offered three times daily, with professional instructors and staff ready to assist. For those interested in experiencing the club firsthand, drop-ins are free, encouraging exploration of what Ace Pickleball has to offer.
Interestingly, Thomas Gist himself is relatively new to the game. After friends persistently urged him to try pickleball, he finally joined in and found himself captivated by the sport. However, this passion comes at a cost.
“I’m just so passionate about sharing the game with everybody else that I don’t get to play that much anymore.” – (Thomas Gist)
News in Brief: Tucson’s New Pickleball Paradise
Ace Pickleball Club, located at 4881 N. Stone Road in Tucson, opened in October with 13 cushioned pickleball courts for players of all skill levels. The pickleball club aims to foster a welcoming community, especially for beginners.
With plans to expand to ten locations, the club features innovative amenities, including dedicated warm-up courts and video game analysis. Membership costs $99 monthly, with free drop-ins for newcomers. Thomas Gist, a new player himself, emphasizes sharing his passion for pickleball with others.
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