Wichita Welcomes TapNPaddles: Wichita’s pickleball community has a new hotspot with the opening of TapNPaddles, a 33,000-square-foot venue dedicated to serving players of all ages and skill levels. Situated in the expanding District 96 area just north of K-96, TapNPaddles boasts 12 indoor courts, designed with top-of-the-line player-focused amenities like no-glare lighting, 21-foot ceilings, and ample court spacing that aligns with USA Pickleball standards. The courts even feature UV black lights for an exciting “cosmic pickleball” experience, adding a unique, energetic element for both serious competitors and casual players. Owned by Mike and Kelli Ventling, the facility’s carefully crafted setup makes it a go-to destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the pickleball scene.
Alongside its courts, TapNPaddles includes a full-service restaurant and bar, pro shop, locker rooms, and a large event space that can be rented for corporate or private gatherings. The restaurant, with seating for 140, offers an all-day menu, including everything from nachos and flatbreads to burritos and burgers, catering to the tastes of players and spectators alike. With additional amenities like a 900-square-foot event space and six large-screen TVs, TapNPaddles is more than just a venue; it’s a place for community connection and recreation in a sport that’s rapidly growing in popularity.
Community Impact Through Events and Partnerships
TapNPaddles is positioning itself as a community-centered facility through planned events and partnerships. Ventling has organized a charity pickleball tournament in collaboration with ICT SOS, a nonprofit focused on raising awareness and resources to combat human trafficking. This tournament not only promises to attract players from across the city but also reflects TapNPaddles’ commitment to making a difference beyond the game itself. The venue’s event space, which accommodates up to 400 people, is ideal for community gatherings, making it a versatile choice for hosting tournaments, corporate events, and private celebrations.
District 96, where TapNPaddles is located, has also seen a surge in growth with several new businesses that complement the pickleball facility. Alongside TapNPaddles, other attractions like Another Broken Egg Café and ShotSuite, an indoor golf simulation facility, have contributed to the area’s appeal as a recreational and social destination. Ventling is also considering expanding further by developing an additional acre of land nearby, which could bring even more recreation-based amenities to District 96, reinforcing its emergence as a key entertainment hub for Wichita.
News in Brief : Wichita Welcomes TapNPaddles
With its state-of-the-art amenities, community-focused mission, and plans for further expansion, TapNPaddles is set to become a major fixture in Wichita’s pickleball scene. As interest in the sport continues to rise, this venue offers a vibrant space for players, families, and fans to connect, compete, and relax. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, TapNPaddles invites you to join in the fun.
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