24,000-square-foot pickleball facility breaks ground in Kalamazoo County
Story by Ryan Boldrey, mlive.com
KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI — Confetti filled the air as ground was broken Wednesday, Nov. 20, on what will be a 24,000 square-foot, indoor pickleball facility in Kalamazoo County.
Friendly Pickle broke ground Wednesday at 5675 West D Ave. in Alamo Township, just off U.S. 131. The business plans to open the facility in June 2025.
The first-of-its-kind family business promises to be a “pure pickleball experience,” featuring eight climate-controlled, championship-sized courts, two comfortable lounge areas and top-notch training programs.
“This groundbreaking represents a significant milestone in our mission to promote and grow pickleball for all ages and abilities in the greater Kalamazoo area,” said longtime Kalamazoo residents and co-owners Ben and Robin Ipema in a joint statement. “The concept is dedicated exclusively to pickleball and will be accessible to first-timers through 5.0+ players.
“We are excited to enhance the recreational landscape in Kalamazoo and to create more opportunities for our community to enjoy fun, fellowship and top-tier competition.”
The ground-up construction project is highlighted by the eight championship-size courts that measure 65 feet by 34 feet. Each indoor court will also feature an outdoor surface to ensure the best and most predictable playing experience. A 9-foot-wide walkway along the baseline of the courts will also offer comfortable viewing for those waiting for the next game.
Friendly Pickle will offer a range of accessible services, including:
- Leagues and tournaments
- Professional coaching and clinics
- Wheelchair pickleball
- Youth and school programs
- Community and corporate events
- Special needs programs
- Easy-to-reserve courts
- Memberships that allow individuals to reserve seven to 14 days in advance
- Visitor passes that allow individuals to reserve two days in advance
Four large garage-style overhead doors will also open to provide airflow and a sense of outdoors without the rain, wind or bright sun, the release states.
“Ben and Robin are the perfect couple to bring this amenity to the community of Kalamazoo,” said Devan Egan, co-founder and owner of top-ranked Club Pickleball USA in Utah. “They are fun, energetic and they love pickleball. I’m excited to see them bring this to life.”
Friendly Pickle is being built by Kent County-based Veneklasen Construction.
For more information, visit friendlypickle.com.
ALSO COMING TO KALAMAZOO: Indoor pickleball club franchise expanding to Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo
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