By Maggie Beamguard
Insider Editor
Moore County pickleball fanatics are anticipating the May 4 Grand Opening of The Pickle Place in Seven Lakes North, the home of Moore County’s first indoor pickleball courts.
The day-long celebration begins at 8 a.m. with free member play. Free junior and adult introductory clinics will be offered for those who register in advance at (910) 400-5224.
At 2 p.m., fans can take in a pro exhibition game at 2 p.m.
Co-owners of the Racquet Club at Seven Lakes, Katie Carpenter and Canyn Russell dreamed big of a way to elevate the game for locals as they watched the sport grow along with the passion of local players.
The 10,500-square-foot, climate-controlled facility will feature four indoor hard courts with a rubberized surface. Players will appreciate the bounce of the court and the ease of play on the body.
“It’s not a gym floor,” Carpenter said. “One of our huge selling points is it’s going to be a hard court, but it’s cushioned to where it’s easier on your joints.”
There will also be a pro shop and a bar area serving beer and wine where players can unwind after a game.
“We wanted to make it to where people would come and hang out even if maybe you weren’t gonna play,” said Carpenter, for whom the sport is as much about community building as skill development and play.
The construction of The Pickle Place began in November and is being completed by Bartels Construction Solutions out of Matthews.
“We are excited because we have had a vision in our head, and we’ve traveled to many different facilities to make sure we have the optimal playing environment for our community,” said Carpenter. “I am confident, not only that this will be the place to play pickleball, but it will be the BEST place to play pickleball.”
Located in the community of Seven Lakes North, the Racquet Club is privately owned, so you do not have to be a resident of Seven Lakes to join. Three levels of membership are available but membership is not required to enjoy the facility. Court rates, an industry standard, will apply.
The Pickle Place will host open play days for specific skill levels, adult and junior clinics, private lessons and tournaments for those with a competitive nature. All are welcome to play.
Carpenter wants everyone to give it a try from experienced tennis players to people who have never stepped foot on a court. “For two hours a day, you’re gonna go out, and you’re gonna have fun and move and be part of a wonderful community.”
Contact Maggie Beamguard at maggie@thepilot.com.
