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Author: Bloomington Pickleball Club

  • Sign Up for BPC Indoor Ladder Events!

    Sign Up for BPC Indoor Ladder Events!

    As the colder months approach, the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) is ready to keep the momentum going with indoor pickleball ladder events at The Crimson Pickle. Don’t let the weather slow down your game – join us for some friendly competition and skill development while meeting new players!

    BPC Tuesday Indoor Individual Ladder

    This event is perfect for individual players looking to sharpen their skills while playing with a variety of partners. Players rotate partners after each game, providing a social and dynamic experience for everyone involved.

    • Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
    • Location: The Crimson Pickle (1525 South Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN)
    • Cost: $5 for BPC Members, $10 for Non-BPC Members
    • Format:
      • Grouped by skill level for balanced, competitive matches
      • 12-minute games with short breaks in between
      • Minimum of 6 games guaranteed, with potential for more depending on time
      • Open play until 8:55 PM if ladder games finish early

    Upcoming Dates:

    BPC Thursday Indoor Partner Ladder

    Grab a partner and get ready for some exciting doubles competition! This ladder format focuses on teamwork as you and your partner play against other duos, all grouped by skill level for balanced matches.

    • Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
    • Location: The Crimson Pickle (1525 South Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN)
    • Cost: $5 for BPC Members, $10 for Non-BPC Members
    • Format:
      • Partner-based play with 12-minute games
      • Grouped by skill level for competitive balance
      • Minimum of 6 games, with additional open play if time permits

    Upcoming Dates:

    How to Register

    Register for both the Tuesday Individual and Thursday Partner ladders through our BPC CourtReserve system:

    Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, these ladders offer a fun way to challenge yourself, meet new players, and stay active.

    Explore The Crimson Pickle’s New Membership Model

    The Crimson Pickle

    In addition to our BPC indoor events, The Crimson Pickle is launching a new membership model to provide dedicated players with more access and benefits. Starting September 1, 2024, Gold Memberships offer:

    • Unlimited free court time on weekdays between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM (over 80 hours/month).
    • Only 200 memberships available to ensure a premium experience.
    • $25/month or $200/year, with a couple’s membership available for $40/month or $320/year.

    This membership could be a great option for BPC players looking to secure court time during peak indoor hours.

  • Strengthening Our Community Partnerships: Exciting Developments for Pickleball in Monroe County

    Strengthening Our Community Partnerships: Exciting Developments for Pickleball in Monroe County

    As the sport of pickleball continues to surge in popularity, the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) is excited to share significant updates from our recent discussions with Monroe County Parks & Recreation. On August 29, 2024, key members of our club met with Matt Wilhoit, Recreation Director – Athletics, and John Robertson, Assistant Director at Monroe County Parks & Rec, to discuss the future of pickleball in Monroe County, including new court developments and potential collaborations that will benefit our growing community.

    Expanding Pickleball Facilities at Flatwoods Park

    One of the major highlights from our meeting was the discussion about the upcoming project at Flatwoods Park. Monroe County Parks & Rec is converting an existing basketball court into two or three dedicated pickleball courts, as part of a broader renovation effort that also includes restroom upgrades and other park improvements. While the target completion is late 2024, this timeline may extend into early 2025, depending on the progress of related work.

    BPC is eager to collaborate with Monroe County Parks & Rec on this exciting project. We have expressed our interest in providing input on the court design and layout to ensure that the new facilities meet the needs of our expanding pickleball community. Well-designed courts will enhance the playing experience and help attract more players to this rapidly growing sport.

    Addressing the Need for More Courts

    During our meeting, we also addressed the increasing demand for more pickleball courts throughout Monroe County. With the sport’s popularity outpacing the availability of current facilities, BPC is exploring additional opportunities to expand our local pickleball infrastructure. Potential sites include underutilized spaces at parks like Karst Farm Park, where new pickleball venues could be developed.

    One promising idea is to transform areas at Karst Farm Park, such as the space behind the splash pad, into vibrant pickleball courts. Although these discussions are in the early stages, we are enthusiastic about the possibilities and will keep our members informed as we progress.

    Get Involved: Your Voice Matters

    An important takeaway from our meeting was the emphasis on community involvement in Monroe County Parks & Rec’s five-year master plan. This plan is crucial for setting priorities and allocating resources for future park projects, including pickleball facilities. We strongly encourage all BPC members to participate in upcoming surveys and public forums. Your input is vital in ensuring that pickleball is recognized as a priority in Monroe County’s recreational planning. You can review the Monroe County Parks & Recreation 2023-2028 Master Plan to better understand the goals and opportunities ahead.

    Partnering for Progress

    In addition to our collaboration with Monroe County Parks & Rec, BPC is actively exploring opportunities to engage local businesses in sponsoring new pickleball facilities. Successful partnerships in other communities have demonstrated that local business support can play a key role in funding and developing high-quality pickleball courts. If you know of any businesses that might be interested in supporting this initiative, please reach out to us.

    Stay Tuned for More Updates

    We are committed to keeping our members informed about all developments related to pickleball facilities in Monroe County. Whether it’s the progress at Flatwoods Park, potential new sites, or ways you can get involved, you’ll hear it first from us. Be sure to check our website and follow us on social media for the latest news.

    We’re excited about the future of pickleball in our community and look forward to working together to make Bloomington a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts.

  • Enhancing Pickleball Experiences: Collaboration and Community Involvement at Bloomington Pickleball Club

    Enhancing Pickleball Experiences: Collaboration and Community Involvement at Bloomington Pickleball Club

    The Growth of Pickleball in Bloomington

    Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports in Bloomington, bringing together people of all ages and skill levels. At the heart of this growth is the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC), which has been instrumental in not only promoting the sport but also in creating a vibrant, inclusive community around it. As pickleball continues to flourish, the BPC is committed to enhancing the experiences of its members and the broader community through strategic collaborations and active community involvement.

    Collaborative Efforts with Local Organizations

    A man in a pink shirt and a woman playing pickleball during a lesson at Simtra BioPharma Solutions.
    Enthusiastic participants engage in an exciting game of pickleball during a lesson at Simtra BioPharma Solutions.
    A group of people, including a woman in a BPC shirt, playing pickleball during a lesson at Simtra BioPharma Solutions.
    Simtra employees engage in a pickleball lesson organized by Bloomington Pickleball Club, enhancing team collaboration and fitness.
    An overview of the pickleball courts set up at Simtra BioPharma Solutions, with employees participating in the game.
    An overview of the pickleball setup at Simtra BioPharma Solutions, where employees enjoy learning the sport.
    The Simtra BioPharma Solutions building with flags in front, under a clear blue sky.
    Simtra BioPharma Solutions, a partner in promoting pickleball through community events.

    One of the key drivers of the BPC’s success has been its strong partnerships with local organizations. A prime example of this is our recent collaboration with Simtra, where we hosted multiple pickleball sessions for their employees. This partnership not only provided Simtra’s team with an opportunity to engage in a fun and healthy activity but also helped to introduce the sport to a wider audience.

    Our ongoing collaboration with Bloomington Parks and Recreation has been equally crucial. Together, we’ve worked on various projects that have significantly improved the facilities available to pickleball enthusiasts. This includes the upcoming installation of an ongoing memorial bench at RCA Park in honor of Doug Kenfield & our beloved pickleball players. This project, coordinated with the Parks department, underscores our shared commitment to creating welcoming, well-maintained spaces for all who visit the park.

    Upcoming Events and Programs

    Players engaged in a pickleball game during a ladder event, with sunlight streaming onto the courts at Bloomington Pickleball Club.
    Participants enjoy competitive play during a ladder event at Bloomington Pickleball Club, showcasing the club’s vibrant community spirit.

    As we look ahead, the BPC is excited to continue offering a variety of events that cater to both seasoned players and newcomers. Our Tuesday Individual Ladder and Thursday Partner Ladder events, running until October, provide regular opportunities for competitive play in a friendly, supportive environment. These events have become a staple of our programming, drawing participants from across the community and fostering a spirit of camaraderie.

    We’re also thrilled to have been a part of the Grand Opening – Free Pickleball Clinic at Marci Jane Lewis Park on August 3rd. This event was a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about the sport, and we invited everyone to join us for a day of fun, learning, and community building.

    Community Involvement and Support

    Two volunteers working together to line a pickleball court with tape, preparing it for an event.
    Dedicated volunteers from Bloomington Pickleball Club carefully prepare a court for an upcoming event
    A group of people celebrating a birthday at a pickleball event, with the birthday person holding a small pickleball-themed gift.
    A surprise birthday celebration during a pickleball event, showcasing the warm community spirit of the Bloomington Pickleball Club.
    A volunteer on a ladder hanging sponsor banners along a pickleball court fence
    A volunteer from the Bloomington Pickleball Club hangs sponsor banners in preparation for an event, highlighting the club’s community partnerships.

    At the BPC, we believe that the strength of our club lies in the active involvement of our members. We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of volunteers who play a critical role in the success of our events. Whether it’s setting up courts, assisting with check-ins, or managing logistics, our volunteers are the backbone of our operations.

    We also recognize the importance of advocacy and public support for the continued growth of pickleball in Bloomington. That’s why we’re encouraging our members to attend the upcoming public board meeting to express their gratitude to the city and support funding for further improvements at RCA Park. Public engagement is key to ensuring that our facilities continue to meet the needs of our growing community.

    Spotlight on Member Engagement

    Our members are at the heart of everything we do, and their engagement is what makes our club thrive. Recent events, such as the sessions with Simtra and our ladder events, have generated positive feedback from participants, highlighting the benefits of being an active member of the BPC. These events not only provide valuable playing experience but also create lasting connections among members.

    To keep our community informed and engaged, we utilize various communication channels, including Slack and email updates. These tools allow us to stay connected, share important information, and ensure that our members are always in the loop about upcoming events and opportunities.

    Conclusion: The Future of Pickleball in Bloomington

    As we look to the future, the BPC remains committed to enhancing the pickleball experience for everyone in Bloomington. We have exciting plans in the pipeline, including further facility improvements and additional programming that will continue to make pickleball accessible and enjoyable for all.

    We invite all members of the Bloomington community to join us on this journey. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about the sport, the Bloomington Pickleball Club offers something for everyone. Together, we can continue to grow this vibrant community and make Bloomington a hub for pickleball excellence.

    Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you on the courts!

  • BPC Members Shine at the First-Ever PickleCon

    BPC Members Shine at the First-Ever PickleCon

    Pickleball enthusiasts from all over the country gathered in Kansas City, Missouri, for the inaugural PickleCon event, and our very own Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) members were right in the mix, representing Bloomington with pride! Heather Kinderthain, Dave Martin, and Timber Tucker all had incredible experiences at this groundbreaking event.

    Heather Kinderthain’s Weekend to Remember

    Heather attended the event with her close friend Kate Grossman Staltari, and it turned out to be a weekend full of fun, competition, and unforgettable memories. From the moment Heather and Kate arrived at PickleCon, they were surrounded by like-minded pickleball lovers. The event was a vibrant celebration of the sport, featuring everything from tournaments to glow-in-the-dark games, and even a variety of vendor booths offering the latest in pickleball gear.

    One of the highlights of Heather’s weekend was participating in the women’s 3.0 tournament, where she and her partner put up a stellar performance and secured 2nd place! The excitement of standing on the podium with their paddles held high was a moment Heather won’t soon forget.

    When they weren’t on the courts, Heather and Kate explored Kansas City in style. They visited three different restaurants, each featuring pickleball courts, allowing them to indulge in delicious food while playing their favorite sport. They even took the opportunity to ride Bird scooters around the city, adding a bit of adventure to their trip.

    The glow-in-the-dark tournament was another unique experience, where the courts were lit up in neon colors, creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere that only added to the thrill of the game.

    Heather mentioned how wonderful it was to meet so many new people who shared her passion for pickleball. The event was not just about competition but also about community and connection. Heather’s Facebook post reflected her joy in being able to share these moments with her oldest and dearest friend, making the event even more special.

    As Heather reflects on her time at PickleCon, she’s already looking forward to next year’s event. The excitement, camaraderie, and pure joy of being surrounded by fellow pickleball lovers have left a lasting impression on her.

    Dave Martin’s PickleCon Highlights

    In addition to Heather’s success, Dave Martin also had a fantastic time at PickleCon. Dave won a social media contest from Pickleball Club Magazine, earning two Player Passes to PickleCon. Upon request, they graciously added a third pass, allowing Dave to attend with his son—an active-duty Army member stationed at Ft. Riley, Kansas—and his wife Haylee.

    The weekend turned out to be a winning one for the Martin family. Haylee won not one, but two Selkirk paddles, each valued at $249.99, along with Selkirk Dry Fit hats for all three of them. Beyond the prizes, Dave had the opportunity to network with key figures in the pickleball community, including Susan Swern from Pickleball for Good Fund, Troy Aikan from EcoSports, and Bethany Owens from CourtReserve, the platform that our club has recently transitioned to.

    Dave’s experience at PickleCon wasn’t just about enjoying the event; it was also a chance to build connections and bring back valuable insights and contacts that could benefit the Bloomington Pickleball Club.

    Timber Tucker’s Role at PickleCon

    Another highlight for the BPC was Timber Tucker’s participation in the college pickleball panel at PickleCon. Timber was honored to be part of this discussion, where he had the opportunity to represent his new Six Zero Pickleball Ruby Paddle. Timber shared that he learned a great deal from the other panelists and was proud to represent our club in such a meaningful way.

    Looking Ahead to Next Year

    Heather, Dave, and Timber’s experiences at PickleCon are testaments to the vibrant and welcoming community that pickleball creates. We’re proud to have members like them representing the Bloomington Pickleball Club on such a grand stage. Congratulations on all your successes! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you all and for our entire club.

  • Successful Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court

    Successful Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court

    The Bloomington Pickleball Club celebrated the grand opening of Ellettsville’s first pickleball court at Marci Jane Lewis Park with great success!

    The event kicked off at 9 AM with enthusiastic participants eager to learn and play. Special thanks to Gary Milhoan, Barb Milhoan, and Judy Henry, who dedicated their time to teaching pickleball to a diverse group of attendees. Their expertise and passion for the sport were evident and greatly appreciated by all who attended.

    Rick Plunkett, Ellettsville Sports Coordinator, addressing a group at a pickleball event under a pavilion.
    Rick Plunkett, Ellettsville Sports Coordinator, deserves a round of applause for his incredible work in getting the court set up. With a very reasonable budget of less than $3000, Rick has provided the community with a fantastic new facility that will undoubtedly be a hub for local pickleball enthusiasts.

    Highlights of the Event:

    • Comprehensive rules explanation and demonstration
    • Engaging games and activities for participants of all skill levels
    • Exciting door prizes for attendees
    Players participating in a pickleball game under a pavilion at the Ellettsville event.
    Participants enjoy a game of pickleball under the pavilion at the Ellettsville event, showcasing the newly set up courts.
    Door prizes including pickleball items displayed on a table at the Ellettsville pickleball event.
    Door prizes, including pickleball items and gift certificates, are displayed on a table at the Ellettsville pickleball event, adding excitement and fun for participants.
    Spectators sitting on benches under a pavilion watching a pickleball match at the Ellettsville event.
    Spectators enjoy watching a pickleball match from the benches under the pavilion at the Ellettsville event, showing community support and interest in the new courts.
    Group photo of participants at the Ellettsville pickleball event, standing together on the new courts.
    Participants gather for a group photo on the newly set up pickleball courts during the Ellettsville event, celebrating the community’s new sports facility.

    We are thrilled with the turnout and the positive response from the community. The new court at Marci Jane Lewis Park promises to be a great asset for Ellettsville, fostering more local interest and participation in pickleball.

    Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success, especially the Bloomington Pickleball Club volunteers and the Ellettsville community. We look forward to many more events and games on this excellent new court!

  • Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court at Marci Jane Lewis Park

    Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court at Marci Jane Lewis Park

    We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Ellettsville’s very first pickleball court at Marci Jane Lewis Park!

    The Town of Ellettsville has successfully constructed a brand-new pickleball court, providing a fantastic new venue for pickleball enthusiasts in the community. This exciting development is located at Marci Jane Lewis Park, 200 S. Park Street.

    Grand Opening Event Details:

    • Date: Saturday, August 3, 2024
    • Start Time: 9:00 AM
    • Location: New Outdoor Pickleball Court under Shelter in Marci Jane Lewis Park

    Join us for a special event that includes:

    • An explanation of the rules of pickleball
    • A demonstration game
    • Door prizes

    This event is organized by the Bloomington Pickleball Club, which is dedicated to promoting the sport and engaging with the community. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, this event promises to be both educational and fun.

    We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating this exciting addition to Ellettsville’s recreational facilities. Don’t forget to bring your friends and family for a morning of pickleball fun!

  • Transitioning to CourtReserve: Enhancing Our Club’s Experience

    Transitioning to CourtReserve: Enhancing Our Club’s Experience

    As we continually strive to provide our members with the best possible experience, we are excited to announce our transition to the CourtReserve software platform. This powerful court management tool is designed to simplify court reservations, event registrations, and communication, making it easier for everyone to stay engaged and informed. Here’s what you need to know about our move to CourtReserve and how it will benefit our club now and in the years to come.

    Why CourtReserve?

    CourtReserve offers a comprehensive solution tailored to the needs of pickleball and tennis clubs. Its user-friendly interface and robust features are set to enhance every aspect of our club operations, from booking courts to managing memberships. Here are some key reasons why we chose CourtReserve:

    1. Streamlined Court Reservations: Members can easily see court availability and book slots from their desktop or mobile app.
    2. Efficient Event Management: Registering for tournaments, leagues, and clinics has never been simpler.
    3. Enhanced Communication: Receive timely updates about club events, court conditions, and more via push notifications and emails.
    4. Membership Management: Manage your profile, renew memberships, and stay informed about member-specific benefits and events.

    How to Get Started

    1. Create Your Account

    If you haven’t already, you’ll need to create a CourtReserve account. Visit the CourtReserve registration page and follow the steps to set up your profile. During registration, you’ll select our club and complete basic information. Remember, your credit card will only be charged if you make a booking or purchase a membership.

    2. Download the App

    For the best experience, download the CourtReserve app on your smartphone. The app allows you to manage everything on the go, from booking courts to registering for events. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices.

    3. Explore the Features

    Take some time to familiarize yourself with the platform. Key features include:

    • Event Calendars: View and register for upcoming events, including open plays, leagues, and social activities.
    • Notifications: Opt-in for push notifications and text messages to stay updated on club news and changes.

    Benefits for Members

    1. Increased Convenience – CourtReserve’s intuitive design makes it easy to navigate, ensuring that booking a court or signing up for an event is quick and hassle-free.

    2. Improved Communication – Stay informed with real-time updates about court closures, event changes, and club announcements. Never miss an important update again.

    3. Enhanced Engagement – With a clear overview of all club activities, members can more easily participate in events and make the most of their memberships.

    4. Secure Payments – The platform ensures secure handling of payments for bookings and memberships, providing peace of mind for all transactions.

    Looking Ahead

    Our transition to CourtReserve is a significant step forward in enhancing our club’s operations and member experience. We believe this change will streamline our processes, improve communication, and make it easier for everyone to engage with the club.

    As we move forward, we are committed to continuously improving and adapting to meet the needs of our members. Your feedback is invaluable, so please share your experiences and suggestions as we settle into this new system.

    Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. We are excited about the future and look forward to seeing you on the courts!

    Join us on CourtReserve today and take your club experience to the next level!

    Feel free to reach out with any questions or for assistance with setting up your account. Happy playing!

  • Community Highlights: Celebrating a Year of BPC Achievements

    Community Highlights: Celebrating a Year of BPC Achievements

    Our annual member meeting buzzed with ideas and celebration, complemented by delicious Papa John’s pizza.

    We honored outstanding members – Paul Ertel won Best Attendance, Patrick Counts took home the Community Spirit Award, Steven Jackson was named Volunteer of the Year, and Timber Tucker received the Leadership award.