Pickleball boom in Colorado fuels growth of new destinations
Pickleball Craze Sweeps Through Colorado
Colorado is witnessing a pickleball revolution, with a surge of entertainment venues dedicated to the sport popping up in Denver and nearby areas. No longer confined to local park courts, Louisville, Thornton, Aurora, and Denver have seen the emergence of at least four pickleball hotspots this year, with more in the pipeline.
Liz Tanji, a U.S. Army veteran, and her husband Michael recently joined the fray by launching Ace Pickleball Club, a national franchise, in Colorado. Located at 6626 S. Parker Road in Aurora, this marks their second venture following the success of their first club in Omaha, Neb.
Recognizing the growing popularity of pickleball, the Tanjis identified the need for a dedicated facility in Aurora due to the shortage of public courts and the challenges of playing outdoors in cold weather. The club boasts nine courts, a drill area, and offers lessons to enthusiasts.
According to Tanji, pickleball is a sport for all, and they are thrilled to introduce it to the Aurora community.
The Rise of Pickleball
Originating in 1965 on Bainbridge Island near Seattle, pickleball was invented by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. Fast forward to 2024, and there were an estimated 19.8 million pickleball players in the U.S., with a significant increase in participation across all age groups.
Kelli Alldredge, president of Chicken N Pickle, discovered the sport in 2016 and has since become a passionate advocate. The indoor and outdoor entertainment center opened its first Colorado location in Thornton, offering a range of amenities such as professional-grade pickleball courts, a restaurant, bar, and games area.
As Chicken N Pickle expands, it is exploring partnerships and acquisitions to enhance the overall pickleball experience for players. Rising construction costs and economic uncertainties have led the company to reassess its growth strategy.
Future Prospects for Pickleball Enthusiasts
Denver residents can anticipate the arrival of Moodswing, a cutting-edge entertainment venue set to open in the Elyria Swansea neighborhood. Boasting indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, golf simulators, and a variety of dining options, Moodswing aims to provide a unique social experience for visitors.
Despite delays in the opening process, the founders of Moodswing remain optimistic about the project’s potential. The venue’s inclusive nature and focus on community engagement reflect the growing appeal of pickleball as a sport for all ages and skill levels.
For pickleball enthusiasts in Denver, the city is expanding its court offerings with new installations at Rosamond Park and the Lowry Sports Complex. These projects signify Denver’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles and recreational opportunities for its residents.
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