Wisconsin’s New Pickleball Kingdom: Menomonee Falls is gearing up for an exciting addition to its sports landscape: a dedicated indoor pickleball facility, set to cater to players of America’s fastest-growing sport. As pickleball’s popularity surges, the community anticipates Pickleball Kingdom’s opening as a place for players of all skill levels to gather, practice, and compete.
A Place for Avid Players Like Ray and Barry
Ray Durbin and Barry Hink, long-time pickleball players, are frequent faces on the Waukesha Park pickleball courts. “All summer long, as long as the nets are up all the way until they take them down. If they take them down,” Barry remarked, highlighting their dedication to the game. Pickleball Kingdom is looking to attract players like Ray and Barry, who crave a reliable place to play year-round.
The Draw of Wisconsin’s Pickleball Scene
Gregory Straub, owner of Pickleball Kingdom, sees Wisconsin as a hotspot for pickleball.
“The state of Wisconsin overall has a significant interest in playing the game.” – (Gregory Straub)
Data from the Association of Pickleball Players shows that 14% of Wisconsinites played pickleball at least once last year, showing a ripe market for the facility. Although some local gyms and community centers offer indoor pickleball, Straub’s vision is to elevate the experience with tournaments and a more competitive environment.
A 60,000-Square-Foot Hub for All Players
The 60,000-square-foot pickleball complex will feature 17 courts, with a signature “king’s court” in the center that’s designed as a stadium court. According to Jen Azevedo, Pickleball Kingdom’s general manager, the facility will offer different membership levels, akin to gym subscriptions, to accommodate various player needs.
“Our king’s court, our stadium court will be in the center.” – (Jen Azevedo)
“We will be hosting a high-level tournament. We will [also] be hosting intermediate-level tournaments,” said Straub, ensuring options for professional competitors and casual players. Despite the anticipation, Ray and Barry may still favor the park courts for now, with Ray noting,
“I’m sure there are going to be a ton of people that want to go.” – (Ray Durbin)
And Barry, enjoying the sunny outdoor setting, added, “What goes better than this, perfect day, sun’s out.” The new Menomonee Falls facility is slated to open its doors in January.
News in Brief: Wisconsin’s New Pickleball Kingdom
Pickleball Kingdom, a new 60,000-square-foot indoor pickleball facility in Menomonee Falls, is opening in January, aiming to cater to Wisconsin’s fast-growing pickleball community. With 17 courts, including a central stadium court, the facility will offer various membership options and host high-level and intermediate tournaments.
Owner Gregory Straub expects strong interest, as data shows 14% of Wisconsinites played pickleball last year. Players like Ray Durbin and Barry Hink, who frequent Waukesha’s park courts, may still favor the outdoors, but Pickleball Kingdom hopes to draw them in with year-round play.