Pickleball Finds a Home at North Royalton: The YMCA of Greater Cleveland has opened its first dedicated pickleball center, 13700 York Road. The facility, featuring four state-of-the-art courts, occupies a former party center that closed in 2021. According to YMCA spokesman Richard Batyko, the venue offers accessibility for players of all skill levels and is a cornerstone for the sport’s growing community.
“It was the best location we could find. We are still looking for other potential locations (for pickleball centers).” – (Richard Batyko)
Pickleball’s Rapid Growth Nationwide
The opening of this center reflects pickleball’s growth across the U.S. Recent data from USA Pickleball shows a 15% membership increase in 2024, totaling over 78,700 members. The sport’s appeal lies in its inclusive nature—players of various ages and physical abilities can enjoy it due to the smaller court size and lighter demands compared to tennis.
Key Highlights of the Game
- Court Size: Smaller than tennis courts, requiring less movement.
- Equipment: Pickleballs are lightweight plastic and less bouncy.
- Accessibility: Suited for players of diverse skill levels and physical capacities.
A Convenient Location for North Royalton Residents
Situated just 1.5 miles from the North Royalton Family YMCA, the pickleball center is easily accessible to local residents. Membership is open to all YMCA of Greater Cleveland members and their guests, further expanding opportunities for community engagement.
Looking Ahead: Potential for Expansion
As interest in pickleball continues to surge, the YMCA is already considering additional locations for future centers. “It was the best location we could find,” Batyko stated, emphasizing the commitment to fostering the sport’s accessibility and growth.
News in Brief: Pickleball Finds a Home at North Royalton
The YMCA of Greater Cleveland has opened a standalone pickleball center in North Royalton, featuring four professional courts designed for all skill levels. The pickleball facility, located at 13700 York Road, reflects the sport’s growing popularity nationwide, with USA Pickleball reporting a 15% membership rise in 2024. Open to YMCA members and their guests, the center is just 1.5 miles from the North Royalton Family YMCA and serves as a new hub for the community.
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