New Pickleball Club in Eagan Fuses Fitness: Chip’s Pickleball Club, a new addition to Eagan’s recreational scene, promises more than just a place to play pickleball. Opened in June 2024, the club, located at 980 Discovery Road, is already a vibrant gathering spot, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and state-of-the-art amenities. Owner Jack Eickhof, 29, turned his newfound love for pickleball into a thriving business designed to unite people through sport, fitness, and community.
A Personal Connection to the Game
Jack Eickhof’s journey into pickleball started unexpectedly in March 2023. After playing at a birthday party, he was immediately captivated by the game’s fun, fast-paced nature. He recalls his experience at a club called Lucky Shots, where he had a firsthand look at the social power of pickleball.
“I had an incredible experience at a club called Lucky Shots where Ashley was working,” Eickhof said. “We were all running around, laughing and having a good time. I got to see the community side of pickleball, and the whole place was buzzing with people and everyone was having a good time. It was a really special moment. Ever since then, I felt called to build it, and build on this really neat community and the sport of pickleball.”
Eickhof hired Ashley Thrun, who worked at Lucky Shots, as the general manager to bring his vision to life. Thrun, who enjoys managing the club’s operations and interacting with players, speaks highly of the sense of community at Chip’s Pickleball Club.
“Everyone always compliments about the community here. If you’re looking for a space to make new friends, this is definitely where you want to come,” Thrun said. “We have really nice courts here compared to others, but also the people here are so great.”
Building a Multi-Dimensional Community Hub
Chip’s Pickleball Club stands out not only for its pickleball courts but also for its holistic approach to wellness. Eickhof envisions the club as a place where members can grow emotionally, physically, and spiritually. The facility offers 12 indoor courts, a co-ed sauna, a cold plunge, and a fully equipped workout area. Guests can take advantage of everything from treadmills and rowing machines to kettlebells and a power squat rack.
“It’s really fulfilling and fun to do something on your own because it’s presenting risks and challenges. But it’s incredibly rewarding and fulfilling to build something from nothing,” Eickhof said.
In addition to pickleball, Chip’s offers fitness programs, a coffee shop, and a cocktail bar, all aimed at creating an inclusive environment for people of all ages and fitness levels. Beginner clinics are offered on Saturdays for new players, while seasoned players can enjoy open play or reserve courts.
Unique Offerings and Naming Story
Eickhof’s decision to name the club “Chip’s” was carefully thought out, blending both fun and functional branding. He explains that “Chip” represents an ideal pickleball player: active, social, and approachable. The name also references the sport itself, as a “chip shot” is a technique used in pickleball to hit the ball with a backspin.
“Chip’s is like our personal name for the ideal player at a club who is active, wants social interaction and connection with other people, and Chip is generally fun to be around,” Eickhof explained. “A chipshot also ties back into the sport of pickleball because it is a way to hit the ball with a backspin.”
The club also offers a large corporate event room with sliding garage doors, perfect for meetings, parties, and corporate events. Clients who rent the space also get access to pickleball courts, making it a versatile venue for both business and social gatherings.
A Personal Year of Growth and Change
2024 has been a transformative year for Eickhof, both personally and professionally. He and his wife Katy became parents to twins, Everett and Isa, who were born prematurely and spent 10 weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit. Thankfully, both are now thriving.
“It’s been quite a year,” Eickhof said.
Despite the challenges, Eickhof is proud of what Chip’s Pickleball Club has already achieved in such a short time. His commitment to the community, wellness, and pickleball is evident in every aspect of the club.
The Future of Chip’s Pickleball Club
Chip’s Pickleball Club continues to grow and evolve, offering a Black Friday deal that includes unlimited membership with free open play, court reservations, and all-day access to wellness and fitness areas. Eickhof’s goal is simple: to create a welcoming space where everyone can become the best version of themselves, in both sport and life.
News in Brief: New Pickleball Club in Eagan Fuses Fitness
Chip’s Pickleball Club, a new pickleball facility in Eagan, opened in June 2024 and quickly became a community hub for pickleball enthusiasts. With 12 courts, a sauna, a cold plunge, a fitness area, and a coffee shop, the club combines sport and wellness. Owner Jack Eickhof and general manager Ashley Thrun emphasize community and inclusivity. The club also offers corporate event spaces and is hosting a Black Friday deal for new memberships, including unlimited open play and access to wellness facilities.
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