The popularity of pickleball is growing, and a 25,000 square-foot facility offering courts, a party room, and a pro shop will soon open in Westminster. Sam Brown, president of the nonprofit American Pickleball Association and owner of Pickleball Food Pub, is developing the project because of the growing need for a top-notch, indoor pickleball facility in the Denver Metro area.
When it comes to the number of pickleball players across the country, Colorado is one of the top 10 states in the nation. Pickleball players use a paddle to hit a ball back and forth over a net on a small, outdoor or indoor court.
During colder months or inclement weather, players can compete at area rec centers, but the courts may be triple-marked for pickleball, basketball, and volleyball. This can difficult for players, so Brown wanted to provide another option. “We’re going to have eight courts that have what’s called a laykold surface, so it’s just like people would play outside,” Brown told What Now Denver.
Players can have restaurants located in the Mission Commons shopping center deliver food to the neighboring pickleball facility. Pickleball Food Pub will offer a full bar featuring local brews.
A pro shop onsite will offer paddles, apparel, balls, and other pickleball-related items. Players can demo paddles at the pro shop with their choice of core, surface, shape, and handle of the paddle.
Pickleball Food Pub will host tournaments and league play. It will also feature a party room for birthday parties or corporate events. Brown is teaming up with Marco’s Pizza to deliver food for the parties, and guests of all ages can learn and play the sport. “From five to 85 love this sport once they try it,” Brown said.
Single players can compete in the sport, but doubles is the most popular way to play. “It’s easy to learn. It’s one of the least expensive sports that parents can get their kids involved with,” Brown stated.
A pre-opening membership sale is currently available for discounts on court time, pro shop sales, party room, and league registration.
“It’s a quick game, and people chat a lot,” Brown said. “It’s just fun.” Brown plans to open Pickleball Food Pub at 7647 W 88th Ave., Westminster, CO 80005 in January of 2022.
Correction: An earlier version listed the zip code of the location as 80021. The correct zip code is 80005.
