Category: Club News

🎉 Big Win for BPC: Official Selkirk Sponsorship Announced!
We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news with our Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) community — we’ve officially been sponsored by Selkirk Sport, one of the premier names in pickleball! This partnership brings a major boost to our club’s mission of growing the sport and supporting players of all skill levels.

🏓 What’s Included in the Sponsorship?

Thanks to this partnership, BPC has received a fully loaded Selkirk Demo Kit, valued at over $1,400 — all at no cost to the club! The kit includes:
- 🥇 Top-tier demo paddles: LUXX, Vanguard Power Air, AMPED, and SLK models
- 🎾 Pro S1 balls: Four 12-packs for club play and demos
- 🧢 Selkirk performance hats: For players and giveaways
- 🎨 Stickers and vinyl banners: To represent Selkirk and boost club branding
This means club members will get to try out premium Selkirk paddles during open play, clinics, and events — and find the perfect paddle before they buy.

🧑‍🏫 Meet Coach Dave Martin – Selkirk Advocate & BPC Pickleball Champion

Coach Dave Martin, Selkirk Advocate and certified pickleball instructor, captures a selfie during a lively training session filled with players preparing for paddle demos and drills

A big shoutout goes to Coach Dave Martin, Selkirk Advocate and a driving force behind our club’s growth. Coach Dave coordinated directly with Selkirk to secure the sponsorship and will be leading paddle demos and providing equipment insights during training sessions.

As a certified pickleball coach and passionate educator, Dave brings experience, energy, and now, exclusive Selkirk access to our members. You’ll see him at the courts helping players find the best equipment for their game.

🤝 How This Sponsorship Came Together

This exciting milestone was made possible through the combined efforts of Coach Dave Martin and a BPC Co-founder, who collaborated closely with the Selkirk team to align our club with their mission of “elevating the game.”

By demonstrating BPC’s commitment to growing pickleball at the local level and building an inclusive, active community, Selkirk recognized the value in supporting our club.

💸 Save on Your Next Paddle with Our Exclusive Code

Ready to take your game to the next level with Selkirk gear?

As part of our sponsorship, club members and friends can now use our exclusive discount code:

🎟️ Coupon Code: CLB-BLOOMINGTON
Use it at checkout on Selkirk.com for savings on select paddles and gear!

This is a great way to support both Selkirk and the BPC while saving on high-performance pickleball equipment.

🏆 What’s Next?

Here’s what you can expect in the coming weeks:
- Demo Days: Try out high-end Selkirk paddles during open play
- Giveaways: Win gear like hats and stickers at upcoming events
- Coaching Clinics: Led by Coach Dave using Selkirk equipment
- Member Discounts: Use CLB-BLOOMINGTON when you’re ready to buy!
🙌 Join the Movement

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this partnership helps BPC provide even more value to members — with the tools, training, and support to elevate your game.

Let’s show our appreciation by repping Selkirk proudly on the courts and spreading the word about BPC’s growing community.

Stay tuned for upcoming demo events and more exciting updates!

Questions? Want to get involved or try a demo paddle? Reach out to a board member or talk to Coach Dave at the courts!
October 9, 2025
🌟 Why You Should Join Us at PickleCon 2025
Pickleball fans, mark your calendars! PickleCon 2025 is returning August 7–10 at the Kansas City Convention Center—and we’d love to see a strong Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) presence at this year’s unforgettable event.

Whether you’re a seasoned player, a social rec enthusiast, or just love being part of the pickleball energy, PickleCon offers something for everyone. This massive celebration of the sport features:

✅ 80+ Courts for Open Play
✅ Pro Panels and coaching insights
✅ Vendor Village with top brands and demos
✅ Glow-in-the-Dark Kickoff Party
✅ Tournaments for all skill levels (separate registration)
✅ Puppy Yoga, giveaways, games, and much more!

🎟️ Choose from a Player Pass (includes court access) or Spectator Pass (ideal for fans and families). You can attend for a single day or make it a full weekend experience.

🌟 Highlights from Last Year
In 2024, several of our BPC members attended PickleCon’s inaugural year—and they left energized, inspired, and with Selkirk gear in hand! 🎁

👉 Read our recap from last year here.

We even brought home demo paddles, made national connections, and participated in live Q&A sessions with pros and major brands.

This year promises to be even bigger, and with a few complimentary passes donated by Triple Crown Sports, we’ll be organizing a group of BPC members to attend together.

📸 See the Fun

Thanks to Jessie Hill from Triple Crown Sports, we have a photo album from last year to give you a taste of the experience:
📷 View the 2024 PickleCon Photo Gallery

💬 Interested in Going?

If you’re interested in joining the BPC crew at PickleCon, let us know! We’ll help coordinate carpooling, hotel options, and registration tips. Some members are even volunteering to earn free passes.
🎟️ Volunteer info here: picklecon.com/volunteer-opportunities

Have questions or want to represent BPC in Kansas City?
📩 Email us at bloomingtonpickleballclub@gmail.com or message us on Slack.

Let’s make 2025 another year to remember. See you at PickleCon! 💥🏓
June 6, 2025
🌱 Spring Forward: New Committees, Fresh Courts & What’s Next for BPC
As the weather warms up and the days get longer, the Bloomington Pickleball Club is springing into a brand-new season—one that’s packed with fresh energy, exciting changes, and more ways to get involved than ever before.

Whether you’re returning from winter hibernation or you’ve been hitting indoor ladders all year, we’ve got something for you this spring.

🏓 Outdoor Play Is Back!

Our outdoor ladder events are in full swing at RCA Park! CourtReserve is your go-to for staying in the loop—check in regularly to register for weekly ladders, special sessions, and social play.

These events are open to players of all levels and are a great way to build skill, meet new people, and enjoy some friendly competition under the sun.

🤝 Building Together: Our New Club Committees

This spring, we launched a more structured (and sustainable!) approach to organizing club activities. Our new committees are already hard at work—and we’d love for you to be part of it.

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening behind the scenes:
- 🧱 Club Functionality – Policies, bylaws, board structure
- 📣 Communications – Emails, updates, social media
- 💰 Partnerships – Sponsorships, fundraising, community relationships
- 🎉 Networking & Social – Community-building events and outreach
- 🗓 Events – Ladders, side events, and everything in between
Whether you're a spreadsheet lover, a social butterfly, or just eager to lend a hand—we’ve got a spot for you.

🟡 Club Upgrades & Gear News

Thanks to members using our Pickleball Central code CRBLOOM, we scored a $174 credit—which went straight into 100 fresh Franklin balls for club use. (Yes, you’re literally helping us keep the ball rolling!)

We’ve also got six portable nets ready to go, stored and managed to make outdoor setups smoother. And if you’ve ever considered becoming a BPC sponsor, now’s the time—tiered banner options are coming soon to help businesses of all sizes support the club.

🙌 How You Can Get Involved

Want to run a side event? Help with a ladder night? Join a committee or lead a one-time effort? We’re here for it—and we’re here for you.

One of the best things about BPC is our community spirit, and this year we’re leaning into that more than ever. Volunteering doesn’t have to be a huge time commitment—it’s about sharing what you can, when you can, and having a little fun while you’re at it.

🔮 Looking Ahead

We’re just getting started. As the season unfolds, you’ll see more play opportunities, better organization, and more chances to connect.

If you're new to the club, welcome! And if you’ve been with us for a while—thanks for sticking with us. This is shaping up to be an incredible year for pickleball in Bloomington.

📬 Stay in the Loop

Don’t miss out! Be sure to:
- Check CourtReserve regularly for event registration
- Keep an eye on our emails and social media for updates
- Reach out if you’d like to get involved, join a committee, or pitch an idea
We’ll see you on the courts! 🏓🌤️
March 27, 2025
A Year in Review: Bloomington Pickleball Club’s Growth, Accomplishments, and Future Plans
The Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) has had an incredible year of growth, community engagement, and strategic planning. As we close out the year, let’s take a look back at the key events, accomplishments, and decisions that have shaped the club’s success, as well as what lies ahead.

Key Events and Milestones

January – April 2024
- Renewed the club’s general liability insurance policy.
- Began the transition from Wild Apricot to CourtReserve for membership and event management.
- Initiated discussions to revise the club’s bylaws to reflect the needs of its growing membership.
May 2024
- Signed an agreement with Bloomington Parks & Recreation and installed yard signs at RCA Park.
- Secured sponsorships from Shine, Simtra, and gift cards from Pizza X, Soma, & Village Deli.
- Launched ladder events at RCA Park.
- Dave Martin, Chair of the Board, became AED and CPR certified.
June 2024
- Transitioned fully to CourtReserve for membership and event coordination.
- Financial reserves increased to $10,300, supporting key initiatives like court improvements and the Doug Kenfield memorial bench.
Summer 2024
- Ladder events averaged 21 participants, with revenue close to surpassing the prior year’s total.
- Addressed challenges with walk-up players attempting to join events without prior registration.
September 2024
- Added new board members: Susan Cooper, Jodee Smith, Matt Slatkin, Brent Litzer, and Bob Costello.
- Ended the partnership with The Crimson Pickle and began running events independently through CourtReserve.
- Membership grew to 100 Premium, 18 Student, and 90 Community (Free) members.
November – December 2024
- Established a Finance Committee chaired by Kyle Parker to enhance financial oversight.
- Approved continued ladder events through winter at The Crimson Pickle with increased fees to ensure financial sustainability.
- Dave Martin announced his intention to step down as Chair of the Board at the end of 2024.
Key Accomplishments in 2024
1. Membership Growth:
  - Membership increased across all tiers, reaching 100 premium members.
2. Financial Health:
  - Despite challenges, the club maintained a strong financial position, with sponsorships and strategic event planning boosting revenue.
3. Community Engagement:
  - Participated in local events like the 50+ Expo and Get Outdoors Day, strengthening ties with the community.
4. Event Success:
  - Successfully organized ladder events, community gatherings, and social mixers to foster camaraderie and grow the sport.
5. Partnerships:
  - Built strong relationships with Bloomington Parks & Recreation, Monroe County Parks & Rec, and local businesses like One World Enterprises.
6. Infrastructure Improvements:
  - Advocated for better court conditions and installed a memorial bench honoring Doug Kenfield.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Future Plans

As the Bloomington Pickleball Club gears up for 2025, several action items and opportunities lie ahead:
1. Strategic Planning:
  - A strategic planning session is scheduled for January 22, 2025, at the Monroe County Public Library. Members are encouraged to share their input through a pre-meeting survey.
2. Membership Structure:
  - The board is exploring new membership tiers and benefits, including family plans, automated renewals, and exclusive events.
3. Financial Sustainability:
  - Efforts are underway to resolve financial losses from ladder events, with plans to introduce prepaid passes and adjust event fees.
4. Volunteer Development:
  - Clear guidelines for volunteers will be developed to ensure smooth event operations.
5. Facility Enhancements:
  - The club remains committed to improving court conditions and advocating for additional pickleball facilities in Bloomington.
Thank You for an Amazing Year!

The Bloomington Pickleball Club’s success wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our members, volunteers, and partners. Thank you for making 2024 a year to remember!

As we plan for the future, your involvement is more important than ever. Join us at the upcoming strategic planning session or share your ideas to help shape the next chapter of our journey.

Let’s continue to grow the sport of pickleball and strengthen our community together in 2025!
January 2, 2025
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.

August 30, 2024
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

Enthusiastic participants engage in an exciting game of 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 setup at Simtra BioPharma Solutions, where employees enjoy learning the sport.

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

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

Dedicated volunteers from Bloomington Pickleball Club carefully prepare a court for an upcoming event

A surprise birthday celebration during a pickleball event, showcasing the warm community spirit of the Bloomington Pickleball Club.

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!

August 30, 2024
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.

August 18, 2024
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!
July 31, 2024
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!
July 11, 2024
Sam Hutner: Leading the Charge in IU’s Pickleball Scene
In a candid interview with Sam Hutner, the president and co-founder of Pickleball at IU, we explore his transition from tennis to leading a top-ranked pickleball team. His journey highlights the growth and community spirit of pickleball, a sport that thrives on inclusivity and fun.

Tennis Roots in Pickleball Play

Sam’s tennis background adds a unique flavor to his pickleball strategy, often bringing in baseline plays and powerful ground shots. These quirks, along with his teammates’ playful reminders, exemplify the friendly and adaptive nature of pickleball.

A Vision for Community and Competition

With advisor Timber Tucker, Sam is expanding IU’s pickleball reach. Their plan focuses on making pickleball accessible to all students, featuring larger play sessions, special events, and maintaining a strong competitive team. Their efforts have led to an impressive team of diverse talents, ready to showcase their skills at the upcoming National Championship.

Looking Forward to Nationals

The club’s evolution from a small group to a community of over 500 members is a source of pride for Sam. As they head to the National Championship, the team is grateful for the support from the Bloomington Pickleball Club and is excited to represent IU on the national stage.

Interview with Sam Hutner

Q: Can you share more about your journey from being a tennis player to becoming the president and co-founder of Pickleball at IU?
“My buddies and I founded Pickleball at IU to find new people to play with. We had no real intentions of making it as big as it is today. However, it grew and grew. Through managing the club, we’ve gained valuable leadership experience that would have been hard to find elsewhere.

We’ve also made so many awesome connections with both other students and members of the Bloomington community, like you all. Some of the closest relationships I’ve made in my three years at IU have been catalyzed by pickleball.”

Q: How did your personal experience with pickleball shape the formation of the team?
“I think the best quality about pickleball is its ability to connect people. It brought my high school friends and me closer together and has allowed me to create so many awesome new friendships with such a myriad of people. So, I naturally gravitated towards pursuing a team that embodies this.”

Q: How are you and Timber Tucker planning to grow the program, especially with the development team of 32 players next semester?
“We are pursuing a twofold approach to shape the future of IU pickleball.

The ultimate goal is to provide a fun and convenient way to play pickleball. After all, the best part about pickleball is that it’s so low-barrier that anyone can play with anyone. To do this, we are working with both IU and other Bloomington leaders to get court space both on campus and indoors. The plan is to provide all students a weekly larger play session and multiple monthly special events like tournaments, networking nights, and social mixers. This will all start this January!

Another goal is to have a strong competitive team. Currently, we fluctuate between the 8th and 9th overall rankings in the country. As of now, we are looking to create a team of around 32 students, ideally 16 men and 16 women. We currently have 9 on the team, including Mehv, Carter, Thea, and myself, along with the new members I shout out later. We will be practicing Monday and Wednesday nights from 8-10 PM throughout the semester at The Crimson Pickle.”

Q: What are your thoughts on the upcoming National Championship, and how is the team preparing for it?
“It’s surreal to think that three years ago the club had 20 people. Now, we have over 500 members and are sending a top-ten ranked team to nationals. Since I was a kid, I dreamed of being an IU athlete. It’s amazing to see how life plays out. I’m blessed to be in this situation.

We’ve been having 2-3 weekly practices in preparation for the championship. We added some awesome new players—shoutout to Connor, David, Jaden, Merin, and Michael. We’re excited to see how it all goes down.

Thank you to all the members of the Bloomington Pickleball Club who’ve been cheering us on. It really means the world to the whole team and me. We hope to make you proud this weekend!”

Good Luck, Hoosiers!

Watch the team play live:
DUPR Pickleball National Championships pool play begins Friday, 11/17.

Stream Live from The Crimson Pickle YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrimsonPickle/streams

Friday Matches:
- 10:00 AM: IU vs. Auburn
- 1:00 PM: IU vs. Georgia
- 4:00 PM: IU vs. Florida
Saturday Matches:
- 8:00 AM: IU vs. Mississippi State
- 11:00 AM: IU vs. Utah Valley
November 15, 2023