Pickleball, a cousin of tennis, badminton and pingpong, has been increasing in popularity across the United States over the past decade. It was cited as “the fastest growing sport you’ve never heard of” by NBC in 2019, with reports showing over three million people playing or having played the sport over a wide array of ages, including a large population of older adults over the age of 55.
Despite pickleball’s rising popularity across the country and the influence of local leaders like Helen White, who has single-handedly spread the love of pickleball by becoming an international player, coach and USA Pickleball Association District Ambassador in Northern Virginia, there has yet to be a indoor facility dedicated to the sport in the DMV.
But alas, Pickleballerz, a local business owned by Beverly and Greg Raelson, recently signed a lease back in December, and is looking forward to opening the region’s first indoor facility solely for pickleball in Chantilly, including six courts for playing, practicing and socializing.
Pickleball is typically played in indoor gymnasiums and outdoor tennis courts across Northern Virginia, just with a smaller designated area, and on wooden, asphalt or tennis court surfaces. Pickleballerz will instead provide a slightly cushioned surface that will increase traction, ball control and offer less impact on player’s joints and knees.
The new space will also allow for regular attendance from local residents, membership options and the opportunity to play pickleball no matter what weather elements are outdoors.
An opening date has not yet been announced, but local players can stay up to date via the company’s website and social media, and look out for a limited number of “Charter Ballerz” VIP memberships that will be available prior to the opening, offering special membership rates and perks. // Pickleballerz: 14424 Albemarle Point Place, Chantilly
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